A future-ready regional hospital

Sarasota Memorial Hospital-North Port responds to rapid growth in southern Sarasota County with a new, regional medical campus designed for immediate needs and long-term evolution. Following completion of strategic site determination and master planning, SMH engaged Flad to advance the design of the new, full-service hospital, translating planning vision into a resilient, future-ready facility scheduled to open in late 2028.

Located on a 32-acre greenfield site along the I-75 corridor, the nine-story hospital will expand access to acute and critical care in one of the fastest growing cities in the nation. The initial phase includes 100 private rooms for admitted patients, a full-service emergency care center, critical care units, surgical and procedural areas, and three upper floors of finished shell space that allow capacity to expand efficiently to 208 beds. The campus plan supports long-range growth beyond 400 beds, aligning infrastructure, circulation, and adjacencies to accommodate expansion without disrupting ongoing operation.

Planning and design efforts build on lessons learned from Sarasota Memorial Hospital-Venice and post-occupancy evaluation findings, shaping strategies that prioritize efficiency, flexibility, and clarity of movement. Clear vehicular approaches separate patient, staff, and service traffic, while defined zones for vertical and horizontal expansion remain embedded within the campus framework. An adjacent three-story medical office building extends access to outpatient and specialty services.

Architecturally, the hospital reflects the contemporary character of the SMH brand while responding directly to Florida's climate. A hurricane-hardened structural approach, durable high-performance materials, and carefully detailed building systems support longevity and resilience. Shading strategies and thoughtfully placed glazing balance daylight, comfort, and energy performance, shaping an open and welcoming environment while meeting demanding clinical requirements.

Developed in close collaboration with SMH leadership, clinical teams, engineers, and regional officials, the project operates within the zoning framework established during the planning phase, positioning the campus to evolve as the region grows and healthcare demands shift.