Discovery Innovation & Simulation Center

At Dolly Parton Children's Hospital, Barber McMurry designed a technology-forward, collaborative space that champions innovation in pursuit of improved patient outcomes.

The Discovery Innovation & Simulation Center (DISC) includes unique spaces for 3D printing, simulation, virtual reality, and other research and development technologies. In the simulation space, Barber McMurry worked with simulation specialist Lavallee Brensinger.

The design relies on brand colors and graphic elements to tie this space into the larger hospital. A custom serpentine louvered wall divides the main corridor from a collaboration space. Each louver is etched with dots using a sublimation dye technique, which, when viewed at a distance, reveal a graphic of children's faces — similar to an impressionist painting. The smiling faces are a gentle reminder of the patients the hospital serves each day.