SHIELD x The University of Kansas Health System ASC
Client: The University of Kansas Health System
Project: Ambulatory Surgical Center Expansion
Architect: Pulse Design Group
Scope: 34 Full-Height Storage Casework, 10 Integration Cabinets, Charting
The Challenge
In the fast paced world of Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs), efficiency isn’t just nice to have - it’s non-negotiable. The University of Kansas Health System needed a serious upgrade to their ASC to handle more patients while keeping the space running with a consistent flow. They came to us for storage solutions that wouldn’t just take up room but actually make the space work for designers, healthcare professionals and patients. "The TUKHS vision was to give that area an ASC where they didn't really have one and to maximize the second floor as much as they could," said Alli Hill, a medical planner at Pulse Design Group.
Our mission? Deliver slick, space-saving setups that streamline workflow for surgical staff that looks good while doing it. All alongside the design brilliance of Pulse Design Group, who brought the vision for the space to life.
"The TUKHS vision was to give that area an ASC where they didn't really have one and to maximize the second floor as much as they could."
- Alli Hill, Medical Planner at Pulse Design Group
SHIELD Full-Height Solid Surface Storage
The Solution
We didn’t just throw in some basic storage units and call it a day. We brought 34 full-height OR storage units, 10 OR integration cabinets and solid surface countertops to the table - each piece designed to meet the high standards of a busy ASC. Here’s how they work:
- Full-Height OR Storage/Integration Cabinets
Our full-height storage units take advantage of vertical space and adjustable shelving, keeping surgical tools and supplies organized, easy to access and out of the way. More room to move means less time dodging clutter and helping patients. The integration cabinets offer an intuitive storage design with clear front panels, making them the backbone of ASC storage.
"Something we put in every KU OR is the integration cabinet, but every time we do it, we improve it. Every time we've done it, it gets that much better, it's almost a standard product for KU," said Hill.
SHIELD Integration Cabinet
- Charting
No ASC is complete without sturdy surfaces to work on. Our solid surface countertops give staff the durable, easy-to-clean workspace they need to handle day-to-day demands. Strong, sleek and practical - just like the rest of the setup.
SHIELD Charting
Tackling Real World Challenges in ASC Design
ASCs come with their own set of demands, and it’s not just about designing a pretty space - it’s about solving real-world challenges for the healthcare heroes who make things happen. From optimizing limited space to ensuring fast, easy access to critical equipment, our solutions don’t just check boxes - they fix real problems. Here’s how:
- Maximizing Tight Spaces
ASCs typically have smaller footprints than full-scale hospitals, which means space is always at a premium. Our full-height storage units are the answer to this challenge, maximizing vertical space to keep supplies organized and accessible without cluttering up the OR space. We give surgical teams the room they need to operate efficiently and ensure designers can create a streamlined, functional space that doesn’t sacrifice style.
- Fast, Seamless Equipment Access
In an ASC, every second counts, and delays caused by poor organization can be critical. Our integration cabinets keep equipment stored safely but within reach at a moment's notice. For designers, this means they can maintain a clean, organized look without compromising on the accessibility the staff needs for a smooth workflow.
"Something we put in every KU OR is the integration cabinet, but every time we do it, we improve it. It's almost a standard product for KU"
- Alli Hill, Medical Planner at Pulse Design Group
- Streamlined Workflow
With our solid surface countertops, surgical staff have the solid, easy-to-clean surfaces they need to keep things moving. Designers benefit from the durability and sleek design of these materials, ensuring the space looks polished while being practical for high-traffic use.
SHIELD Integration Cabinet Detail
The Result
The University of Kansas Health System’s ASC is now a space where function meets finesse. With SHIELD’s custom solid surface storage solutions and countertops, the ASC has been transformed into a streamlined environment that prioritizes both efficiency and aesthetics. Surgical staff enjoy quick access to essential tools, organized workflows and durable surfaces they can rely on.
Designers? They got a space that not only looks sleek and modern but works just as hard as the people using it. Together, we’ve helped create an ASC that empowers both the design team and the healthcare heroes to deliver top-notch care, all within a space optimized for performance. None of this could have been possible without the expertise of Pulse Design Group bringing the entire ASC together, thanks for helping us make cool sh*t.