Northwest Community Hospital has been a vital institution in the Arlington Heights community for nearly 60 years, and the design of the inpatient tower embodies a renewed commitment to the hospital's 'Triad of Care: Patient, Family and Caregiver.' The patient care addition maintains a relatively small footprint and provides a new, slender vertical element as the upper floors 'peel away' from the existing geometries of the international style campus, energetically redefining the campus's relationship to the community. Abundant natural light, air quality, thermal comfort, noise control and privacy were prioritised to contribute to the healing environment for patients. Respite areas - indoor and outdoor - are provided for patients, their families and staff. Elements of nature connect inside and out and include landscaped gardens, green roofs, as well as interior finishes that use colors and patterns found in nature.