Summary
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Jefferson Health’s Honickman Center stands as a beacon of modern healthcare, specifically designed to create a peaceful and calming environment for patients.
To address sensory sensitivities of both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals, Stantec partnered with Ennead Architects and M|R Walls to develop a custom cloud wall that spans 17,000 square feet over 12 floors using Corian® Solid Surface.
Because of its durability, ease of cleaning, and ability to be molded and thermoformed into 2D and 3D shapes, Corian® Solid Surface was identified as the best material for this project. But what truly made this innovative project possible was M|R Walls’ ability to seamlessly integrate the design components on-site using patented technology.
With 15-20% of the global population experiencing neurodivergent conditions,* the facility was designed to accommodate visitors with sensory sensitivities.
On top of providing centralized access to a range of medical specialties, the driving force behind developing the Honickman Center was improving the overall experience for every patient.
Through input from neurodivergent focus groups and the Jefferson Center for Autism & Neurodiversity, M|R Walls developed a custom cloud wall texture with a high-touch pattern for tactile stimulation in waiting areas, vestibules, and hallways throughout the building.
Using a proprietary process, M|R Walls created a 3D-textured installation that spanned the entire scope of the building without visible repetition while also concealing all seams within the texture. This enabled their visionary concept to enhance spatial aesthetics while also serving a functional purpose in creating a comforting environment for patients.
Because Corian® Solid Surface can be easily cut, shaped, and seamlessly thermoformed, it significantly contributed to helping M|R Walls achieve their vision for the Honickman Center.
The neutral yet warm finishes of the Corian® panels helped set a welcoming tone, and the tactile texture further elevated the facility’s soothing aesthetic. To achieve this tactile element, M|R Walls added texture to Corian® Solid Surface—a process that accentuated the design’s smooth curves around every corner, resulting in a more cohesive and tranquil space.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, M|R Walls chose Corian® Solid Surface for its durability and nonporous certified hygienic properties that make Corian® easy to clean and maintain. This was especially important for a high-traffic healthcare setting like the Honickman Center, where hygiene is a top priority.
Jefferson Health’s Honickman Center exemplifies the successful integration of innovative design and advanced materials to create a patient-friendly environment. The collaboration between Stantec, Ennead Architects, M|R Walls, and the Jefferson Center for Autism & Neurodiversity has set a new standard for healthcare facility design, emphasizing the importance of considering neurodivergent needs in creating stress-reducing environments.
Stantec is a global design and engineering firm renowned for its expertise in creating sustainable and inclusive environments. With a focus on community-centric solutions, Stantec delivers integrated design and engineering services across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Ennead Architects is an internationally recognized architectural firm known for its innovative and thoughtful designs.
Specializing in cultural, educational, and institutional projects, Ennead Architects focuses on creating spaces that inspire and engage users.
M|R Walls is a leading design and fabrication firm specializing in creating custom wall textures and surface solutions. M|R Walls works with advanced materials like Corian® Solid Surface to deliver unique, high-touch tactile designs. M|R Walls collaborates with architects and designers to bring visionary concepts to life, enhancing the functionality and aesthetic appeal of various environments.
To learn more about M|R Walls, visit www.mrwalls.io.
Corian® Design, a division of DuPont Water & Protection, is a global organization that creates, manufactures, and markets advanced materials, products, and solutions for interior design and architecture, originating from a foundation of world-class technologies and expertise. Marketed under the Corian® brand and the Make Your Space™ tagline, its materials, products, and solutions meet the most demanding requirements in terms of beauty, functionality, and durability. The Corian® Design global portfolio is continuously evolving, and it currently includes Corian® Solid Surface, Corian® Quartz.
To learn more about Corian® Design, visit www.corian.com.
*National Cancer Institute, “Neurodiversity,” dceg.cancer.gov, 2022
For further information contact:
Hailey Schmidt
+1 (989) 890-2204
Hailey.schmidt@dupont.com
