St Luke's DCIP

Soaring brick facades dotted with glass windows reflect the extensive history of the St. Luke’s hospital system while holding space for growth. Initially a humble six-bed hospital serving those living in mining camps, St Luke’s has expanded to become Idaho’s largest private employer and a leader in healthcare innovation. The recent expansion revitalizes more than 7 buildings from the 1940s-1970s. The Boise Medical Campus now includes an inpatient tower, shipping and receiving building, central plant, and medical office buildings.

These renovations will more than double the size and capacity of the hospital network, requiring a design that integrates new and existing components of the hospital into a cohesive whole. All buildings now surround a major circulation artery that flows between original and new building entries, utilizing complimenting elements of contrast to ease wayfinding and clarify pathways between major hospital departments.

St. Luke’s is designed to exist within the fabric of Boise, not separate from it. To achieve this, respecting the surrounding context at scale was critical. Arch Nexus engaged with the St. Luke’s community of doctors and nurses throughout the two-year design process while St. Luke’s met with neighborhood groups to gather design feedback. Community engagement spaces such as bike repair stands and screening along the new 1,100-stall parking garage support the walkability of downtown Boise.

This expansion project is pursuing the Boise Green Code and emphasizes walkability in and around the project. Over 10 connected road improvement projects, utility infrastructure, bicycle paths, public transportation and parking considerations are thoughtfully included to enhance the visitor’s experience.