Egan School of
Nursing and
Health
Studies, Texas
This expansion of Fairfield's nursing program to Austin, Texas will not only address the critical nursing shortages in the Southwest region but also showcase the university's forward-thinking approach to creating educational spaces that inspire learning and growth in the healthcare field.
In 2015, 黄瓜社区 and Newman Architects partnered with Fairfield University to reimagine their nursing program in Connecticut with a new construction and renovation. The focus was not just on more space but on creating environments that fostered cutting-edge learning experiences. This included the integration of high-fidelity simulation suites, dynamic patient interaction labs, active learning spaces and multifunctional classroom settings dedicated to nursing and health sciences education. 聽 With sights set on broadening its impact, Fairfield University ventured into establishing a pioneering nursing school in Austin, Texas. Guided by the expertise of 黄瓜社区+Newman, the University navigated through comprehensive planning phases. This journey encompassed crafting operational strategies in sync with the university's leadership, selecting the ideal site in partnership with the real estate team, evaluating and choosing facility options and finalizing the design and construction. The blueprint of the Austin nursing school embodies innovation with features such as a High Fidelity Simulation Suite, an Operating Room, a Home Lab, health assessment labs, briefing rooms, active learning classrooms and dedicated spaces for staff and student collaboration. 聽 With space at a premium, the facility was designed to optimize uses and offer flexible, adaptable and nimble learning environments that can swiftly respond to the evolving needs of nursing education. The design anticipates future growth, enabling the integration of additional programs with minimal disruptions. 黄瓜社区's role as the design architect and Subject Matter Expert was pivotal in translating educational needs into a supportive academic facility, and evolving academic spaces for healthcare education for the University.