Natural light pours into the glazed, two-story lobby of the St. Charles Cancer Center in Bend, Ore., as well as the floor-to-ceiling windows on the perimeter. Designed by ZGF Architects LLP, the project features Guardian Industries Corp.’s high performance SunGuard AG 50 low-E coating on clear glass. The glazing was used to help reduce glare and control solar heat gain, so patients and employees can enjoy the multiple views without elevated indoor temperatures.

According to the announcement, the St. Charles Foundation estimates individuals needing cancer care in the Central Oregon region are expected to increase 50 percent by 2025. The St. Charles Cancer Center was designed from the ground up by ZGF Architects with patient, family, staff and community input. The 16,000-square-foot facility brings comprehensive cancer prevention, treatment and recovery services under the same roof.

The St. Charles Cancer Center in Bend, Ore., receives an abundance of natural light thanks to the use of Guardian’s SunGuard AG 50 low-E coating on clear glass.

“Research shows access to natural light in the healthcare setting helps reduce stress, improve emotional well-being and alleviate pain*,” says Brian Schulz, commercial product manager, Guardian Industries Corp.”

The facility is oriented toward the southwest, positioning it to capitalize on breathtaking views of the mountains.

With a visible light transmission of 50 percent and a solar heat gain coefficient of 0.33, SunGuard AG 50 glass also assists with glare and solar heat gain management, so patients and employees can enjoy those views without elevated indoor temperatures, according to Guardian. The glass performance also contributes to the building’s overall energy management. SunGuard AG 50 was fabricated by Oldcastle Building Envelope® and installed by Bend Commercial Glass.

This design has led to several honors for ZGF, including:

• World Architecture News Awards Healthcare Winner
• Modern Healthcare Silver Award
• Healthcare Design Showcase Award of Merit
• ENR Northwest Best Projects Best Project in Healthcare
• Interior Design Best of Year Small Healthcare, Finalist
• International Interior Design Association Oregon Chapter Juror’s Choice Award

*The Benefits of Glass, The University of Michigan Taubman College of Architecture and Urban

Planning, 2012, Guardian Industries Corp.