Skip to main content
Start of main content

Penn Medicine - Pennsylvania Hospital Café 1751

A healing environment to nourish the body, mind, and soul

  • 7,600

    Square Feet

  • $2.7M

    Project Value

  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Blending modern designs into the surrounding styles of 250-year-old architecture

Part health center and part museum, the Pennsylvania Hospital is a meaningful piece of American history. Founded in 1751, the nation’s first hospital wanted to renew their drab and dated cafeteria. We were asked to bring life back to the space without disrupting the sense of culture. The challenge? Seamlessly blend our modern designs into the surrounding styles of 250-year-old architecture. 

The hospital needed a comfortable space to provide respite for patients, staff, family members, and administrators. We achieved an ageless aesthetic through architectural detailing that reflects early styles of Colonial and Federal design. By introducing novel materials and a neutral yet uplifting color tone, we transformed the outmoded hospital cafeteria into Café 1751 and brought holistic healing back to the hub of the hospital.

To render an emotionally uplifting experience, Café 1751 takes full advantage of the natural light flooding in from an adjacent courtyard. Varied levels of seating, bar counters, and built-in banquets give visitors relaxing and comfortable options. The 24-hour lounge offers family members a sense of home during vulnerable times, and visitors have access to fresh and healthy food options.

At a Glance

Offices
Award
International Interior Design Association, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware Chapter, 2017
Meet Our Team

Jennie Hydro, Associate

Inspiration and innovation in design are the keys that unlock the potential in every project.

Tasso Karras, Senior Associate, Interior Design

We succeed when we create spaces that result in positive experiences for the patient, the patient’s family, physicians, and staff.
Tasso Karras Senior Associate, Interior Design Read More

John L. Patten, Principal

I enjoy taking a client’s concepts and goals and converting them into a spatial environment that not only creates a beautiful work atmosphere, but also enhances work flow efficiency in the process.

Carl Shilling, Principal

Sustainability and energy conservation is key in healthcare. It’s a 24/7 solution for facilities that serve our communities 24/7.

Nikki Mancusco, Associate, Interior Designer

The most rewarding part about being a designer is seeing your ideas improve the lives of other people.
Nikki Mancusco Associate, Interior Designer Read More

Jennie Hydro

Associate

Tasso Karras

Senior Associate, Interior Design

John L. Patten

Principal

Carl Shilling

Principal

Nikki Mancusco

Associate, Interior Designer

We're better together

  • Become a client

    Partner with us today to change how tomorrow looks. You’re exactly what’s needed to help us make it happen in your community.

    Contact Us
  • Design your career

    Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.

    Join the Team
End of main content
To top