Receiving a cancer diagnosis can bring about anxiety, uncertainty, and worry for patients as well as those who care for them. The American Cancer Society seeks to ease a cancer patient’s journey by providing housing, transportation and emotional support through their Hope Lodge facilities. Our latest partnership with ACS, located in Omaha, Nebraska, focused on creating a place that provides opportunity for comfort, reflection and rejuvenation.
Cedar trees, original to the site, created inspiration for the architectural design. The site layout maximizes outdoor habitable areas ranging from large community gathering patios to more private areas for reflection. Walking paths throughout the site encourage guests to take in the fresh air and carefully landscaped natural surroundings. Building materials including rough texture local brick, smooth cut stone and wood are reminiscent of the cedar tree cross section providing texture, shadow and warmth to the building façade.
Inside, public spaces meant to be shared by all guests are located on the first level along the natural perimeter and away from parking and vehicular circulation. Creating a “home away from home” atmosphere for the guests, the first floor includes a large living room with fireplace, a library, and movie room. Kitchen facilities on the first floor allow guests or caregivers to cook their own food and are arranged in a similar manner to modern family kitchens with island seating as well as larger dining tables. Guest suites are located on the upper two floors in order to provide a quieter, more reflective, private atmosphere. Further enhancing the ability to meet the wide variety of individual needs and desires, guest suites consist of a sitting area with desk separated from the sleeping room.
A cancer patient’s treatment and experience is as personal and unique as the individual themselves. In Omaha, whether a patient needs emotional support from community or family or complete privacy they will most certainly find comfort during their stay at the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge.
Trivers is currently working with the American Cancer Society on a new Hope Lodge in Jackson, Mississippi expected to be complete later this year. In addition, we are beginning design for the renovation of the Hope Lodge located here in St. Louis.
