Project category: New construction (completed February 2005)

Chief administrator: James Amos, CEO, Margaret Mary Community Hospital, (812) 934-6624

Firm: BSA LifeStructures, (317) 819-7878

Design team: Robert Schoeck, Principal-in-Charge; Richard Engelhardt, Project Designer; David Ralich, Project Architect; Andrew Myers, Engineering Project Manager; Richard Berger, Site Designer (BSA LifeStructures); Scott McFadden, Interior Designer (Maregatti Interiors)

Photography: © Jeff Millies, Hedrich Blessing

Total building area (sq. ft.): 52,198

Construction cost/sq. ft.: $204

Total construction cost (excluding land): $10,633,996

The Hansen Center provides patients with advanced radiation and medical oncology treatment and outpatient services in a nurturing environment close to home.

The healing environment begins when patients approach the easily accessible site. Separate entries to oncology, the outpatient clinic, and service areas help patients easily navigate the facility. From the brown sandstone exterior to the wood, art-glass, and water features throughout, The Hansen Center is designed to nurture patients and caregivers.

A medical oncologist said, “I have never seen a more elegant yet comfortable and welcoming cancer center in my 30 years as an oncologist.”

Patients inspired the design. For example, in the infusion suite, patients can close or open the panels of textured glass for privacy or interaction with other patients during chemotherapy treatment. The bays have amenities for family members and views of a healing garden.

”It helps take their minds off their treatment and encourages them to focus on their healing,” said an oncology nurse at the center.

Precise radiation and medical oncology in one location bring comprehensive care to the community and encourage collaboration among oncologists.

A community room and a kitchen provide space for support groups and classes. A laboratory and pharmacy, salons for massage therapy, a resource library, and a boutique for wigs, prostheses, and other specialty items allow patients to fulfill a range of needs at the center.