UNC Health Blue Ridge Recognized For Design Excellence
Two construction projects at UNC Health Blue Ridge have received honorable mentions in the inaugural Elev8 Design Awards by Buildings.com. The awards celebrate the best in commercial building design and operations in North America across eight building types.
The $28.3 million Cancer Center addition and renovation received this comment from the jury: “This complex Cancer Center Addition and Renovation does consider biophilia, healing and access to views with the center garden. Due to the nature of this market sector and complex systems it demands function, accessibility and the integration of technology often with innovative approaches.”
The $136 million Morganton tower project received this comment from the jury: “For the local community, this expanded healthcare space is able to serve more people (staff/patients) with an emphasis on health and wellbeing. This market sector requires rigorous evidence-based design that demands the design team to innovate. Several areas gesture to biophilia for increased health and wellness in alignment with mission.”
“Receiving this recognition for both our Cancer Center and Morganton tower projects is a meaningful affirmation of what have done at UNC Health Blue Ridge for our community,” said Deanne Avery, CHC, CHFM, EDAC, director of Planning, Design, Construction, and Real Estate at UNC Health Blue Ridge. “These projects were born from a deep commitment to healing, innovation, and community, not just in how we deliver care, but in how we shape the spaces where that care happens. To be recognized alongside some of the best design efforts in North America reinforces our belief that thoughtful, people-centered design has the power to transform lives. We’re honored to be part of a movement reshaping the built environment for a healthier, more sustainable future.”
Architects and designers were encouraged to submit projects that represent innovative design thinking and construction practices. Designs that advance aesthetics, performance, sustainability and decarbonization, social impact, and wellness.
Recipients of the Elev8 Design Awards exemplify the power of design to positively impact people – and the planet – whether as new construction or renovations. Buildings that reshape the built environment toward a more sustainable future for all.
Winning entries, including the projects from Blue Ridge, will be published in the Second Quarter issue of BUILDINGS magazine, read by 70,000-plus building owners and facility managers in North America. The awards represent a unique opportunity for architecture and design firms to present their best to work.
