Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Front Lobby Renovation

Orillia Soldier’s Memorial Hospital (OSMH) required a renovation of their main, non-emergency entrance to reorganize and update the space, including changes to their registration and information areas, waiting areas, as well as visitor areas such as gift shop and refreshment spaces. The entrance, built in the 1960’ s, was not consistent with the hospital’s goal of creating inviting, engaging spaces with which to service their patients and visitors, many of whom are seniors with differing ability levels.

OSMH engaged SAI to work with their stakeholders (7 groups) to develop a strategy for reorganizing and updating the space. The design focused on maximizing space efficiency, creating easy-to-access spaces with improved flow and functionality, and meeting the stakeholder’s requirement that each functional area maintains equal prominence to the others. Interior work creates an inviting and engaging, patient-friendly space with prominent wayfinding. The front-of-house, visitor-facing areas for registration, information, and cashier were maintained, while the back-of-house spaces for hospital staff and volunteers were reorganized to improve efficiency. The overall space was designed for flexibility of use, allowing each area to be closed off based on needs and schedule. Interior details were consistent with the Hospital’s desire to maintain a sedate and familiar sense to the design. Exterior work maintained the envelope and worked within the confines of the existing structure while creating an inviting and modern new entrance. Careful consideration and strategic layouts were required to meet the extensive HVAC requirements within ceiling heights that met functional requirements.