ON THE BOARDS | Innovative Mass Timber Hospital Breaks Ground in Picton

• First all mass timber acute care hospital in North America, highlighting sustainable architecture and carbon sequestration.
• Incorporates energy-efficient features like geothermal systems, green roofs, and photovoltaics, with plans for electrification and net-zero readiness.
• Designed with biophilic principles, including natural light, native landscaping, and tranquil outdoor spaces for patient and staff well-being.

The new Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital recently broke ground in Picton, Ontario and is set to become North America’s first all mass timber acute care facility. Designed by HDR and built by M. Sullivan & Son, the 97,000-sf structure blends cutting-edge medical technology with sustainable architecture, leaning heavily on the project’s mass timber construction which boasts superior carbon-sequestering capabilities.

“This is about more than sustainability—it’s about comfort, care, and stewardship,” said Jason-Emery Groen, HDR design principal. The project was designed with energy efficiency in mind, with design features such as geothermal systems, building-integrated photovoltaics, EV-ready parking, composite wood cladding, and green roofs. The facility is also designed for future electrification and net-zero carbon readiness.

The project team embraced biophilic design principles by bringing in natural light, native landscaping, and tranquil outdoor spaces. There’s also a central public garden and a private off-stage garden for staff to find respite. The project, when complete, will include 23 inpatient beds, an emergency department, diagnostic imaging, procedure spaces, and ambulatory care services.

“This hospital is a symbol of community pride and resilience,” said Quinte Health CEO Stacey Daub. The new facility will be built adjacent to the current one, which will remain operational throughout construction, with completion slated for 2027.