West Coast University
Health care students participate in simulated lab experiences that feature the latest technology used in health care fields
Understanding what drives the need for change
West Coast University faced a pivotal moment in its growth story. After years of operating from a cramped 60,000 square foot Dallas campus, the university had outgrown its space and needed to relocate to support its expanding healthcare education programs. The new 136,000 square foot Richardson campus represented more than just additional room—it was an opportunity to completely reimagine how future healthcare professionals would learn and train.
The university's mission centered on providing health care students with cutting-edge simulated lab experiences that mirror real-world medical environments. From routine patient care to high-stakes emergency situations, students needed spaces that could adapt to various learning modes while incorporating the latest healthcare technology. The challenge was creating an environment that felt both professional and welcoming, supporting everything from traditional lectures to intensive hands-on simulations that would prepare students for the demanding realities of healthcare careers.
How we brought the vision to life
Tangram partnered closely with Gensler to create a comprehensive workspace transformation that would serve the unique needs of healthcare education. Understanding that different learning experiences require different environments, the team carefully specified furniture solutions that could support the university's diverse educational approach. Durable lounge and ancillary furniture in the university's signature color wave created inviting social spaces, while flexible task seating and desking systems in labs and classrooms could adapt to both collaborative work and individual focus.
The technology integration became the project's most complex element, requiring custom engineering to seamlessly interface with the university's Laerdal SimCapture healthcare simulation platform. The team designed an AV system specifically for the simulation labs that could capture and analyze student performance in real-time. To balance the intensity of medical training with moments of calm, the design included strategically placed video walls in the lobby featuring high-resolution nature content curated by renowned cinematographer David Hunting, creating a restorative environment within this fast-paced educational setting.
3 professionals brought this vision to life
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