Reading, PA | Ballinger, 2007

The MRI & PET CT Suite was the first phase of a five phase shuffle of the nearly 30,000 sf radiology department at Reading Hospital.The reorganization and expansion began with the consolidation of imaging modalities into a unified block serving bed towers at the periphery. The reorganization also served as an opportunity to clearly delineate inpatient, outpatient, hospital staff, and visitor circulation.The location of the MRI & PET CT Suite is within an unused courtyard.The new five story infill provides much needed expansion space and a greater footprint for an improved radiology department.The penthouse provides space for an improved heating and cooling plant and updated electrical service for radiology. Early design studies sought to create a level of transparency and openness using layered spaces of access and large glazed openings to alleviate the stress of examination. These studies set the tone for the final design.