The redesigned storm water management system will eliminate flooding, reduce erosion and promote healthy plant growth to improve water quality.

Two green roofs planted with Sedum varieties will reduce storm water runoff and improve energy efficiency.

A 30-foot grade differential across the site and the addition of impervious area required hydrologic schemes that could drain the site while sustaining the ecology of environmental areas.

From Feng-Shui-inspired curves of patient rooms to expansive views of ponds and woods, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital delivers the latest medical technology while promoting wellness in patients and the environment. This LEED^® Silver certified facility is the result of a major low-impact development that expanded an existing medical facility in West Bloomfield Township, MI. A high level of sustainability was achieved through a comprehensive upgrade of storm water management practices and incorporation of numerous sustainable features into the facility. Its engineering design by Albert Kahn and Wade Trim was recognized with an Engineering Merit Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan and the Michigan Society of Professional Engineers.

An innovative storm water management approach that retrofitted six Best Management Practices (BMP) within the 80-acre site constraints provides extraordinary protection of the environment. On-site wetlands and rain gardens were created to treat and retain storm water runoff. Mechanical pretreatment systems collect runoff from paved areas and remove suspended solids and oils. Flow is then conveyed through vegetated channels and stored in the main detention pond. The detention pond was enlarged with a created wetland area to triple capacity and reduce flashy discharge rates by 83%, a rate comparable to that of an undeveloped site. This reduces the potential for downstream flooding and erosion while providing a sustained flow of treated storm water to support the aquatic environment.

Energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment, noise attenuation, rooftop gardens and expanses of glass for natural light help to promote the facility’s sense of harmony with the environment. While patients enjoy the comfort of the natural setting, the hospital will be monitoring the effectiveness of its sustainable features and looking for ways to incorporate them in other facilities to advance their holistic approach to health care.

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