The Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Calgary is one of the largest comprehensive cancer centres in the world, designed by DIALOG in collaboration with Stantec.

At the core of the building lies “The Heart,” which is an all-season garden offering spaces for respite, sensory distractions, and views of nature. Two curving L-shaped forms come together in an “Embrace.” This design maximizes natural light and creates a healing environment, seamlessly connecting the interior with the outdoors.

The building is organized into five interdisciplinary “Villages,” each designed to foster collaboration between caregivers, patients, and researchers. These villages include radiation therapy, welcoming, outpatient, research, and inpatient villages.

Also responsible for mechanical and electrical engineering, DIALOG incorporated dynamic glass to reduce energy loads and an automated guided vehicle (AGV) system to optimize logistics and operational efficiency.

Wide, clear pathways and intuitive way-finding systems ensure ease of movement for people of all abilities. In addition, all public and patient-facing areas have been designed to cater to people with visual and hearing impairments through the use of tactile signage and enhanced audio systems to ensure that patients, families, and staff can navigate the space.