The awards program recognizes design excellence in sustainabilty, health and equity. Cedar Hill won the 2026 Healthcare category. Elizabeth Baxter, a senior sustainable design specialist, also earned a Planet Positive Rising Star Award.
Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health is Washington, D.C.’s first new, full service hospital in a quarter century. More than a hospital, Cedar Hill responds to longstanding community health disparities in Wards 7 and 8 where life expectancy is nearly 25 years shorter than in other parts of the district.
The 136-bed hospital includes adult and pediatric emergency departments, a verified trauma center, maternal health and delivery services, a behavioral health inpatient unit, ambulatory clinics and physician offices. The building includes a shell floor that allows for future flexibility and up to 48 additional inpatient beds.
By integrating daylight, soothing natural elements and intuitive wayfinding, the facility’s trauma-informed design reduces patient anxiety and promotes faster recovery. This restorative environment also extends critical support to healthcare workers, creating a calmer and more efficient workplace.
Cedar Hill’s sustainability strategy went above and beyond expectations. Designed in compliance with the DC Green Building Act, Cedar Hill became the first hospital in Washington, D.C., to achieve LEED Healthcare certification and surpassed its initial Silver target to officially earn Gold-level status.
Read more about Cedar Hill’s Planet Positive recognition at metropolismag.com.
Elizabeth Baxter – Rising Star Award
Elizabeth Baxter also received recognition as a 2026 Planet Positive Rising Star. As a senior sustainable design specialist based in HOK’s Houston studio, Baxter helped lead the firm’s Sustainable Materials Tracking Initiative that last year tracked 95% of firmwide projects for health, transparency and environmental impact.