A New Gateway to Care
The expansion of St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children’s critical care tower enhances security, navigation, and the patient experience in a child-like environment.
Critical Care Tower
Philadelphia, PA
Since 1875, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children has been a leader in pediatric care, delivering nationally recognized programs and specialized services to families throughout Greater Philadelphia and beyond. Committed to providing exceptional care in a progressive environment, the hospital recognized the need to expand and modernize its campus to better serve patients and families.
Its 135,000-square-foot critical care tower redefines the hospital’s main entrance, improving campus security and streamlining check-in and arrival processes. Designed to create a welcoming and calming first impression, the main lobby features a playful hot air balloon mosaic made from 180,000 individual marbles, installed in a series of 200-pound panels.
The interior finishes use a soft palette of cream and gray tones, complemented by lively origami shapes—including boats, butterflies, and swans—that act as intuitive wayfinding elements guiding visitors through the building.
With this expansion, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children strengthens its mission to provide high-quality, patient-centered pediatric care within an environment that promotes comfort, clarity, and healing.
