ALPOLIC ACM Panels Highlight Health Center’s Innovative Identity

Virginia lies in what is called a “diabetes belt,” where the statewide average of diabetes is higher than any other state in the country. The need for a Diabetes Care and Research facility in Hampton Roads was vital as diabetes rates are particularly high in southeastern Virginia.

The EVMS Strelitz Diabetes Center was named after the philanthropist/ businessman, Leonard Strelitz. Strelitz was responsible for raising the eight million dollars needed to renovate the facility.

Inadequacies in the original structure left something to be desired. Its insufficient design limited the space required to work with large numbers of patients. In addition, poor ventilation left the original facility with a foul odor.

The 47,000 square-foot building was completely gutted in the creation of a better-equipped healthcare facility. The redesigned structure allowed for state-of-the-art amenities not often seen in a single location. The installation of a new HVAC system, along with mildew-resistant drywall, allowed the building to accommodate patients in a clean environment. Additionally, the building features numerous sustainable attributes including thermal resistance, acoustics, daylighting, low VOC, and the use of recycled materials.

According to the architects at PF & A Design, the building envelope “…works as a sound barrier and has increased energy performance using LEED criteria.” A perfect fit for heavy-use buildings such as health centers, composite panels are a strong, long-lasting material. In addition, their diverse range of shapes and colors make composite panels aesthetically desirable as well, allowing healthcare facilities to provide their patients and visitors with a more comfortable environment.

Fabricated and installed by Roof Services Corporation, the facility features over 20,000 square-feet of ALPOLIC aluminum composite material. The building’s perimeter is wrapped in Mica panels that create a contemporary exterior design. The aluminum composite material complements the Center’s identity of modern innovation.

Utilizing the latest technological advances in medicine, the facility is much more than a Diabetes Center. It also contains a Neuroendocrine Unit that specializes in neuroendocrine tumors.

As with most healthcare construction, patient wellbeing is the primary goal. The new facility accommodates 14,000 patients a year with an incredible team of physicians, nurses and other medical professionals that took decades to assemble.

The Strelitz Diabetes Center aligns with Eastern Virginia Medical School’s (EVMS) mission of achieving community-based education. Not only providing medical care and education in the community of Hampton Roads, but also showcasing the passion and innovation of the staff within.

images © Mark Rhodes for Mitsubishi Plastics Composites America

information © EVMS Magazine, Roof Services Corporation, PF & A Design

ALPOLIC is proud to sponsor an online Continuing Education course titled "MCM/ACM Paint Systems and the Building Envelope" provided by Ron Blank & Associates, Inc.

COURSE DETAILS
Course number: ALP07B
Credits: 1 AIA HSW CE Hour