UC Davis Health Tschannen Eye Institute and ACC Expansion

Sacramento, CA

Winner of the CMAA National award for most outstanding healthcare project over $50 million, this new world-class eye care and vision research center was seamlessly incorporated into the existing ambulatory clinic. The new four-story eye center features a unified circulation spine running the full length of the building, natural diffused daylighting to help patients' dilated pupils, an abundance of biophilic elements, and a dynamically folding clear glass curtain wall. The eye center comprises 64 exam rooms, 24 imaging rooms, the latest in medical care technology, and a pediatric ophthalmology suite.

One of the main challenges Buehler faced as SEOR related to constructing the new building directly adjacent to a fully operational MRI suite in the basement of the ACC. The foundation systems initially recommended in the geotechnical report were vibration-intensive, thus potentially detrimental to the operation of the MRI suite. Buehler recognized this issue during pursuit of the project we performed a Lean Choosing By Advantages analysis of recommended and alternate foundation systems in collaboration with all stakeholders. This analysis and collaborative approach ultimately led to the selection of an alternate foundation system that provided the best value and allowed the MRI suite to operate continuously during construction activities.

Due to the absence of existing drawings, Buehler performed multiple site visits to document the as-built condition of the ambulatory care center. Together with the contractor, our engineers designed modifications to the existing precast panels that resulted in minimal impact to the existing ACC spaces, allowing integration of the building with the new eye center and ensuring continuous operation of the ACC throughout the project. Buehler also collaborated extensively with the structural and light-gauge steel subcontractors on numerous cost-saving measures throughout the design-build process, as well as during construction.