James and Mary Louise Carpenter Surgical Center

Copley Hospital

In 2009 Freeman French Freeman helped Copley Hospital in Morrisville, Vermont update its facilities master plan. Eight years later, FFF helped bring one key element of that plan to life—a completely new surgical suite.

Designed for maximum staff efficiency, the 20,000 square-foot addition incorporates an innovative triangular design that makes the space more compact, provides better sightlines, and reduces travel distance for staff. Central Sterile Processing is conveniently located adjacent to three new operating rooms while medical waste flows out of the OR opposite the main entryways, thereby minimizing contamination and infection.

The suite includes a total of 19 pre- and post-op beds including six post-anesthesia care units and dedicated beds for bariatric and pediatric patients. A back-of-house corridor allows surgeons to access locker rooms in street clothes, gown-up, and enter the semi-restricted central core in protective attire.

Two replacement procedure rooms, required by 2014 FGI standards, are supported in the design, as is a dedicated waiting room for patients’ families.