The state-of-the-art institute, designed by Gaithersburg, MD-based architectural firm Wilmot/Sanz, Inc., will have 156 beds for patients, a nine-room cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology suite, a helipad and a parking garage to accommodate 980 vehicles. Conference and education space will also be available. All additions and upgrades are being made to complement the existing 656-bed Inova Fairfax Hospital. Upon its scheduled spring 2004 completion the institute will become the first hospital facility dedicated solely to the treatment and research of cardiovascular diseases in the entire Washington metro area.

"From the ground up, the cardiac experts and facility planners are collaborating to build a heart institute that allows specialists to deliver care in the most efficient, results-oriented way possible," hospital officials explain in a recent newsletter. "[It] will incorporate futuristic information technology, revolutionizing the delivery of heart care to physicians and patients throughout the region. Our technology focus is to create a 'hospital without walls' that extends the most sophisticated diagnostic and treatment resources to referring physicians and patients wherever they are located." The institute will also serve as an area training center and a destination for national studies. Part of the design concept is based upon what hospital officials call a "peaceful, healing-environment," which will be partially created through the building's wood accents and exterior gardens.