Riverside Walter Reed Hospital in Gloucester is in the beginning stages of a $1.2 million project that will fully renovate its inpatient rooms. The renovation in the south wing of the building is the first step in achieving the hospital’s master plan for a full facelift, according to Gaynor Callis, director of nursing.

The rooms, designed by James River Architects, PC, of Newport News, will have new flooring, tile and ceilings, and brighter paint. All pipes and plumbing features will be replaced, including complete renovation of each room’s bathroom facilities. Spain Commercial, Inc., of Yorktown, is completing the construction work.

The staff designed aspects of the rooms to make for better patient mobility, Callis added. "We had to ensure the various pieces of the rooms are workable for patients and staff; and are sturdy and safe," she said.

Hospital staff visited with patients for months prior to the renovation plans, asking them what they would like to...