Project Spotlight: UCHealth Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute (RMLEI)

UCHealth Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute (RMLEI), located in the Sue Anschutz-Rogers Eye Center on the Anschutz Medical Campus was originally opened in 2002 in a new 47,000 SF building. A 2015 expansion added a new entry, and an additional two floors totaling 85,000 SF and renovating 10,000 SF of the original building. In 2019, planning began for a 40,000 SF renovation and buildout of shell space to further expand the Eye Center. Completed in 2021, it is now one of the largest eye centers in the country, offering the highest level of treatment for any eyesight condition, as well as clinical research and training.

The new expansion includes a conference center, modern collaborative open work areas, flexible offices, and additional exam rooms, diagnostic, and treatment spaces.

Gallun Snow worked with the UCHealth project team, Altus Architectural Studios, and Howell Construction to meet the challenges posed by planning and implementing phased construction over two years. This was accomplished with minimal disruption to existing operations, all while adapting to ever-changing COVID pandemic protocols.

Additional challenges involved blending materials and palettes from 2001 and 2015. The renovated palette includes lighter, brighter finishes, natural materials, textural focal points, and vibrant new artwork, while maintaining the best of the previous projects. Gallun Snow’s scope for the 2001, 2015, and 2021 projects included interior design, furniture planning and specification, and art consultation. It was particularly rewarding after 20 years, to help create an updated look that reflects the state-of-the-art facility and brand recognition that will carry this eye center into the coming years.