Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio

The world’s largest Ronald McDonald House

Responding to the increasing demand for supportive services, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio embarked on an extensive expansion and renovation project, transforming the existing facility into an impressive 230,000-square-foot campus—now the largest Ronald McDonald House in the world.

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Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio Campus Expansion

The expansion addresses the surge in demand for the organization’s services by almost doubling the size of the current campus, incorporating 80 guest rooms, an enlarged commercial kitchen, and expanded dining, meeting, and event spaces. A crucial aspect of the project involved meticulous site planning, integrating two new three-story buildings seamlessly into the existing complex. The connections between these buildings, spanning vital hospital infrastructure, posed a unique challenge, limiting the construction possibilities above.

The interiors of the expanded Ronald McDonald House reflect a thoughtful blend of functionality and aesthetics. Warmth and character are infused into spaces with custom art, expansive windows, and color. The design approach incorporates themed spaces from local institutions and businesses like the zoo area, offering all-weather play for children and providing a venue for events, often featuring animals from the Columbus Zoo. The two-story dining room offers a place for everyone to sit and additional space for volunteers to cook for guests. Additional staff offices and meeting rooms were created on the second floor to support operational efficiencies and facilitate the house’s growth and effectiveness.

“In order for us to keep up with the demand, we need to grow. Ohio Health, Ohio State and Nationwide Children’s Hospital are growing and that means we need to grow with them.”

– Dee Anders, CEO and Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio

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Ronald McDonald House Zoo Room

Executed with a dedicated investment, the project adhered to a well-structured timeline to open the new space during the holiday season. This significant undertaking aims to serve an additional 2,000 families annually, providing essential accommodations for those navigating challenging times with children undergoing treatment at nearby Nationwide Children’s Hospital and other healthcare systems.

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  • CityColumbus, Ohio
  • Client Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio
  • Year Completed 2023
  • Size of Project 107,000 SF, 80 Keys
  • Collaborators MEP: Prater Engineering
    Structural: Jezerinac Geers
    Civil: Advanced Civil Design
    General Contractor: Continental Building Company