For decades, Kitchell has been at the forefront of delivering high-performance healthcare facilities that redefine industry standards. Completed in 2016, the UC San Diego Jacobs Medical Center is a testament to this commitment—an advanced medical and research hub that enhances patient care, medical education, and translational research. At the heart of this success was a highly collaborative approach, where Kitchell united diverse teams in the Big Room—a dynamic, integrated workspace that ensured alignment, efficiency, and innovation from the project’s inception.
Breaking Down Silos: The Power of the Big Room
Delivering a 509,500-square-foot, $596 million ground-up medical facility required more than just expertise—it demanded alignment, trust, and real-time collaboration. To achieve this, Kitchell adopted integrated project delivery concepts and implemented the Big Room—a co-located workspace where project owners, architects, engineers, and trade partners worked side by side. This approach transformed traditional project execution, fostering:
- A Unified Team – Accelerating decision-making and strengthening accountability.
- Increased Transparency – Aligning all phases of the project through open communication.
- Collaboration that Fueled Innovation – Turning challenges into opportunities for smarter, more effective solutions.
- Recognition and Milestone Celebrations – Reinforcing a culture of achievement that kept teams engaged and motivated.
Nicknamed “The Enterprise,” this shared workspace became the command center of innovation, where problems were solved in real-time. One standout success was our waterproofing strategy—an intricate challenge that required input from multiple disciplines. Through close collaboration, the team delivered a watertight solution that not only met but exceeded performance expectations.
A Translational Research and Medical Education Hub
More than a world-class hospital, UC San Diego Jacobs Medical Center is a cornerstone for the future of medical training and translational research. It features a state-of-the-art Medical Education Theater, designed to immerse students and professionals in advanced learning experiences. Flexible learning spaces ensure that the next generation of medical professionals is equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.
This facility also plays a critical role in translational research, bridging the gap between medical discoveries and patient care. By bringing together clinicians, researchers, and students, Jacobs Medical Center accelerates the process of turning groundbreaking research into life-saving treatments—ensuring that medical advancements reach the bedside faster than ever before.
More Than a Building—A Lasting Impact
At Kitchell, we don’t just build—we create environments that shape the future of medicine, research, and education. The LEED Gold-certified Jacobs Medical Center stands as a symbol of our dedication to sustainability, innovation, and community well-being. The Big Room approach was instrumental in delivering a facility that doesn’t just serve today’s healthcare needs but drives progress for generations to come.
As we celebrate 75 years of impact, this project exemplifies how collaboration, trust, and shared vision can lead to extraordinary results.