Donald W. Reynolds Center on Aging
Little Rock, Arkansas
Perkins Eastman Architects PC

This design creates a sunlit home for an unusual program of geriatric study

© Timothy Hursley

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Housed in a structure of approximately 100,000 square feet and planned for future vertical and horizontal expansion, the Donald W. Reynolds Center on Aging represents one of the first facilities in the country to create an interdisciplinary home for geriatric programs in patient services, clinical research, basic science research, public policy, and education. State-of-the-art technology to connect the center with other educational sites around the world; and a clear mission to bring researchers, educators, students, and patients together both guided the design of the facility.

The architect was challenged to find a unique way of expressing and accommodating the varied functions of the program in an interdisciplinary environment that promotes the exchange of information between researchers and the patients visiting the facility on a daily basis for care. In addition, the owner wanted to provide an environment intended to serve and break down the stigma associated with major institutional settings that many elderly people feel.

Two complementary components, a north volume serving research and education and a south volume serving patients and visitors, are bisected by a linear spine atrium and lobby. These spaces offer the community of users a richly varied environment with contemporary, durable furnishings in attractive, airy, and well-lit spaces. This combination of physical and technological features has positioned the Center on Aging to play a major role in shaping the next generation of treatments and caregivers for older adults.

Formal name of Project:
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences:
Donald W. Reynolds Center on Aging

Location:
Little Rock

Gross square footage:
100,000 sq. ft.

Total construction cost:
$16.8 million

Owner:
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Architect:
Perkins Eastman Architects PC
1100 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Tel: 412-456-0900
Fax: 412-456-0906