HOK designs new cancer pavilion for Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey

HOK has unveiled the design for the new RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey cancer pavilion.

The new 510,000-sf cancer treatment and research facility will include laboratory services, an outpatient clinic, an infusion and chemotherapy suite, radiation oncology, imaging, and interventional radiology. The facility will expand service offerings to people living in a state with one of the highest rates of cancer in the country.

South facade

Designed to respond in scale and character of the existing RWJBarnabas campus, the facility is organized into three primary components:

– Outpatient care: 84 infusion bays, 74 exam rooms, advanced radiology including four linear accelerators, diagnostic equipment (CT, MRI, mammogram and other equipment with core lab), pharmacy facilities, and outpatient urgent care.

– Inpatient care: 96 inpatient beds on three floors, a dedicated floor for surgical and procedure rooms (up to 11 total), a central sterile processing area, and inpatient support spaces.

– Research: Wet lab facilities and equipment to support 10 research teams, clinical trial offices, and faculty offices.

A four-story atrium lobby that spans the full depth of the building will serve as a “town square.” The atrium was designed as a biophilic, healing environment with natural light and lush plantings to enhance the well-being of patients, visitors, clinicians, students, and staff.

RCINJ South dropoff

“The new facility places the patient first and improves the patient’s experience at every stage of treatment,” said Kenneth Drucker, FAIA, LEED AP, Design Principal for HOK’s New York studio. “The design features a bridge connecting the cancer pavilion to the existing Cancer Institute and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, facilitating access for both patients and staff.”

When complete, the pavilion will provide 500-600 permanent healthcare positions.

RCINJ Stair view

For most of human history, design has mostly considered “typical users” who are fully able-bodied without clinical or emotional disabilities. The problem with this approach is that it offers a limited perspective on how space can positively or negatively influence someone based on their physical, mental, and sensory abilities.

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