Healthcare
UCHealth – HRH OR and PACU Expansion
Howell completed the new Operating Room and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit suite within UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital’s expanded tower. After UCHealth finished the major tower addition, the next priority became transforming the second-floor shell space into a sophisticated surgical environment that would support the hospital’s growing patient care needs. Howell was selected to lead this effort on an accelerated schedule so the hospital could occupy the space before 2026.
Working closely with Page Architecture, Howell converted approximately 13,200 SF of newly constructed shell space into a high-performance surgical suite. The once-empty floor plate steadily evolved into a complex clinical environment that included four modern Operating Rooms, a Clean Core, a Video Integration Room, and an Equipment Room designed to support advanced procedures and operational needs.
Howell also finalized a comprehensive Prep and Recovery area that featured 17 Post-Anesthesia Care Unit bays, an isolation room, two care team stations, and a full range of support spaces including Clean and Medication rooms, Soiled Utility facilities, Nourishment stations, Equipment Storage, and staff and patient restrooms. Each space was completed to promote efficient clinical workflows and uphold patient safety.
Because work occurred within an active hospital, Howell maintained close communication with staff while carefully managing infection control and safety protocols. Construction activity was sequenced to minimize disruption and maintain progress toward the aggressive timeline, supported by accelerated strategies, alternative materials, and prefabricated components.
As the project approached completion, Howell delivered a highly specialized surgical environment that played a vital role in supporting UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital’s expanding surgical services. The finished space reflected Howell’s expertise in healthcare construction and its ability to execute complex projects within operational medical facilities.