SickKids Patient Support Centre

The 22-storey Patient Support Centre (PSC) at SickKids campus in downtown Toronto showcases a multi-disciplinary approach, seamlessly blending architecture, workplace interiors, and landscape design. The SickKids Patient Support Centre (PSC) is the first step of the SickKids campus renewal, known as Project Horizon. The plan aims to build an inspired and re-imagined hospital of the future through a thoughtful balance between new build and renewal initiatives. B+H was engaged to represent the organization's commitment to revitalizing its downtown Toronto presence, aiming to create a forward-thinking healthcare workplace for the future.

Serving as a dynamic hub within the campus, the in-patient Atrium Building connects with the Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, emphasizing critical links between the bench and bedside. The PSC consolidates the hospital’s core administrative services into a central hub and houses interdisciplinary educational and learning areas, along with individual and collaborative workspaces for staff from over 30 hospital departments. Approximately 3,000 staff members occupy the building, including physicians, nurses, and more. The PSC is a transformative project that goes beyond building expansion. By prioritizing inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability, the PSC significantly enhances the SickKids campus and creates a positive social and environmental impact. Including collaborative zones, dedicated learning spaces, and a state-of-the-art simulation lab within the PSC demonstrates a commitment to equitable access to education and training for the hospital staff. From a social perspective, the PSC takes a proactive stance on social equity by enhancing accessibility and inclusivity. Incorporating tactile indicators, audio guidance, Braille signage, and universal and gender-neutral washrooms ensures that the facility caters to diverse needs, creating an environment that promotes equality and independence. This emphasis on accessibility benefits the hospital's staff, exemplifying a commitment to social responsibility. The PSC targets LEED v4 Gold NC Certification, following Toronto's Tier 2 Green Building Standards. The building is fully serviced by district energy for heating and cooling, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy resilience. Through high-performance envelope systems, the PSC maximizes occupant comfort and natural daylighting and has achieved air-tightness levels comparable to Passive House Standards. At the top of the tower, terraced green roofs contribute to the building’s sustainability through rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse while offering physicians and hospital staff further opportunities to engage with the city and the natural environment. Additionally, 20% of raw materials are sustainably sourced, with transparent reporting on interior finishes. Honouring the hospital’s research culture and pioneering a workplace design for integrated healthcare delivery, the new PSC emerges as a transformative force for SickKids. With the mission to nurture collaboration and innovation among its talent, the PSC seamlessly connects the SickKids campus from research to care and strengthens the connection to SickKids’ main campus and community.