Nicklaus Children's Hospital Unveils the Kenneth C. Griffin Surgical Tower, a State-of-the-Art Design by Perkins&Will Miami Studio, Pioneering the Future of Pediatric Healthcare
Nicklaus Children's Hospital proudly announces the grand opening of the Kenneth C. Griffin Surgical Tower, a cutting-edge facility designed by the renowned Perkins&Will Miami Studio. This innovative, five-story, 120,000-square-foot tower represents a transformative leap in pediatric surgical care, blending advanced technology with a patient- and family-centered design to create an unparalleled healing environment.
Built atop the existing Emergency Department, the Griffin Surgical Tower replaces outdated operating rooms that have served the community for over 35 years. The expansion features 12 advanced Universal operating suites, 40 Universal Pre-Op/Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) spaces, 4 induction rooms, and an 18-bed med-surg inpatient unit. This modernized space also includes a new Sterile Processing Department (SPD), surgical administration offices, and a pre-op clinic. These enhancements will not only increase operational efficiency but also elevate the overall patient and family experience.
"The opening of the Kenneth C. Griffin Surgical Tower marks a historic milestone in our 75-year legacy," said Matthew A. Love, President and CEO of Nicklaus Children's Health System. "This new facility not only modernizes our surgical department but also ensures that our patients receive the highest level of care in a space designed to enhance comfort and efficiency. We are incredibly grateful to Mr. Griffin and all our donors for their support in bringing this vision to life."
The architectural vision, brought to life by Perkins&Will Miami Studio, focuses on a family-centered experience by incorporating natural elements, thoughtful spaces, and abundant natural light. The tower's lobby features intimate nooks for privacy, offering calm and serene spaces for families during challenging moments.
Each floor incorporates natural materials like wood and colors inspired by nature, creating a soothing environment that resonates with children. This nature-inspired aesthetic contributes to a healing atmosphere throughout the facility.
Recognizing the immense stress healthcare workers face, particularly heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic, the design includes exclusive outdoor terrace, staff lounges, and discreet meditation areas on each floor. These spaces are dedicated to physicians, nurses, and general staff, providing mental respite and fostering a sense of retreat.
"Partnering with Nicklaus Children's on this transformative project was a remarkable experience," says Adriana Portela, project lead and Associate Principal of Perkins&Will Miami Studio. "The Surgical Tower is designed not only to meet the needs of today’s most complex pediatric cases but also to adapt to future innovations in healthcare."
The Griffin Surgical Tower is equipped with the latest surgical technologies, including customizable lighting, integrated UV sterilization, and hypothermic changing technology for precise patient temperature management. Each operating suite is designed to accommodate complex surgeries, from trauma care to brain and heart procedures, allowing children to receive world-class care close to home.
Additional groundbreaking technologies include the Medtronic O-arm® StealthStation® S8® Surgical System, offering real-time 2D/3D imaging for neurosurgery, and the Zeiss® robotic visualization microscope for enhanced precision. Nicklaus Children's is the first pediatric facility in the Southeast to use the Spine Smart Dose feature, reducing radiation exposure by up to 70% for patients and medical staff.
Kenneth C. Griffin, whose historic $25 million gift made this project possible, shared, "I am honored to support Nicklaus Children's Hospital in its mission to deliver exceptional care. The Griffin Surgical Tower is a testament to the hospital’s commitment to excellence and innovation, ensuring that children have access to the best medical treatment available."