Christiana Care Health Services
Christiana Health Care located in Delaware is an 860-bed medical complex that offers a wide range of medical services. As the complex grew over the years, the cafeteria that was a satellite to the main kitchen became too small, and the demand it put on the main kitchen became too great.
To create a cafeteria large enough to support current and future populations, the existing cafeteria building was expanded, doubling its size to 20,000 square feet. To relieve pressure on the main kitchen, the new cafeteria included a full kitchen.
To avoid an institutional look, the cafeteria serving counters were designed to look like cabinetry. Adjustable glass food shields provide more than protection; they add sparkle and beauty to the counters. The new 400-seat dining area was divided into modular pods that take advantage of floor to ceiling windows. A grand walkway through the large dining room created drama for visitors and employees entering the room.
The cafeteria was a green building project. Where possible, sustainable materials such as the linoleum, clay-based tile, and wood and stainless steel counters, were incorporated.
So that foodservice was not disrupted, the new dining facility was constructed in phases. Planning included the design of a temporary cafeteria and dining area.