October 10, 2011
Construction recently commenced on the expansion of the Nemours /Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, Delaware. The $260 million project will add approximately 450,000 square feet to the campus. Phase one is expected to complete construction in fall 2013 and open for patients early 2014.

“The design of the Nemours expansion was a truly collaborative project. Our team worked closely with hospital leadership to develop a comprehensive master plan aimed at transforming health care for the region’s children. We were inspired by the hospital’s Family and Youth Advisory Councils’ input to create an experience that puts the family first while bringing caregivers closer to patients,” commented Ed Huckaby, FAIA, ACHA, ACHE, Senior Project Designer and Pediatric Practice Leader at FKP Architects.

To keep pace with the changing health care environment and meet patient needs, phase one of the expansion broadens the hospital’s acute care capacity, enhances critical care and increases its emergency and trauma care capabilities. Features include all private, family-centered patient rooms, expanded family amenities, collaborative team spaces, the addition of a “Main Street” atrium and a new Emergency Department. The sustainable design infuses both patient and staff spaces with natural light and takes advantage of the serenity of the campus’ pastoral setting.

“In the coming months, you will see the beginning of a structure designed with and for families. It will be a place that pulls together all of our best learning and practices over the last several years, as well as allowing room for future discoveries. We are not just adding another building. It is an investment in the welfare of our children, as we move from a hospital administering to children to being a family-centered health system,” remarked Dr. Kevin B. Churchwell, CEO of the Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children.