After a two-year construction project, the Palomar Medical Center West in Escondido, CA, has brought a breath of fresh air to the medical facility. Situated on a 52-acre site, the 11-story, state-of-the-art healthcare facility is designed to accommodate 360 patient beds, 12 operating rooms, a trauma center and a nursing tower with a diagnostic and treatment wing.
The new hospital is notable for its sustainable design. It was built with recycled and renewable materials, and it uses a minimal amount of water and electricity. Special features are designed to enhance a healing environment, including a 1.5-acre “living roof” and terrace of drought-resistant native plants located above the surgery, cardiology and interventional radiology suites. The green roof is also designed to deflect light and heat to provide a natural cooling system for the facility.