Construction is nearing completion for the UI Health Welcome Atrium at 1740 W Taylor Street in the Illinois Medical District. Located directly across from UI Health’s new outpatient center, the two-story enclosure will attach to the main hospital building, providing a new lobby and wayfinding point for patients, visitors, and staff.
UI Health Welcome Atrium. Photo by Jack Crawford
UI Health Welcome Atrium. Photo by Jack Crawford
The space will be primarily an open plan, centered around a central reception kiosk. Surrounding this focal point will be new visitor seating, a security station and office, pastoral care areas, as well as multiple conference rooms.
UI Health Welcome Atrium. Rendering by Legat Architects
The design by Legat Architects emphasizes transparency and openness with a full-height glass curtain wall facade marked with dotted patterns throughout. Visible from the outside, the kiosk component will be topped by a rounded wood-clad centerpiece that will house one of the conference rooms. Around the waiting areas will also be planted trees to further enhance the interior.
UI Health Welcome Atrium. Photo by Jack Crawford
UI Health Welcome Atrium. Photo by Jack Crawford
No new parking will be added with the current project, however there are numerous parking garages and public transit options in close proximity. Nearest bus stops are available for Routes 7, 9, X9, and 50 all within close walking distance, as well as access to the CTA L Pink Line via a five-minute walk east to Polk station. The next closest L service is for the Blue Line at the Illinois Medical District station, via a 14-minute walk northwest.
UI Health Welcome Atrium. Photo by Jack Crawford
With F.H. Paschen having served as the general contractor, the atrium is expected to officially open this coming summer.
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They need to ban parking on that side of the street, whole block, so people can drop off along the whole block. Visited there for work many times and it is a mad house. With elderly and disabled people who need time and space to get out of vehicles and get over the curb.