The Building Itself as Art: Curtain Wall

Artist Spencer Finch worked closely with architects to create a seamless “skin” for the facilities that is itself a piece of art. The enormous curtain wall that covers most of the building features 26 carefully chosen shades of glass inspired by the Impressionist paintings of Claude Monet. Blues and greens represent the adult and children’s towers respectively, and can be seen for miles away. The curtain wall shimmers in the sun, creating an effect reminiscent of water, and changing in appearance with the changing weather and angle of light.

The curtain wall is the result of months of painstaking experiments with color and materials to determine which would work best both functionally and aesthetically.

A Welcoming Shelter: Entrance Canopy

Finding your way to a hospital’s entrance has never been easier. A large, curving canopy covers all public entrances to The Johns Hopkins Hospital, including the emergency entrance. Designed by architecture firm Perkins + Will, the wide canopy, similar to the broad overhangs used in airport terminals, shelters patients and guests from the weather. Along with two covered pedestrian bridges connecting the parking garage with each main hospital tower, the canopy provides an inviting, protected entry and exit.

Landscape Design

Thoughtful landscaping along Orleans Street creates an inviting entry experience for patients and their families. The entry plaza, by landscape architecture firm OLIN, displays natural color and texture in every season, and creates an interesting visual pattern when viewed from inside the buildings above.

Gardens around the hospital offer shade, tranquility, and the opportunity to connect with nature. Plantings include lavender, rosemary, roses, and magnolia—all associated with ancient healing.

A meditation garden outside the Zayed Tower is a calm place for quiet outdoor reflection amidst trees and flowing water.