Henry "Hank" Winkelman, a renowned architect and pioneer in healthcare design, passed away at his home in St. Louis on December 27, 2024, at the age of 83. Over his illustrious career spanning more than three decades at HOK, Winkelman revolutionized medical facility architecture, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. His innovative designs not only enhanced functionality but also promoted healing environments that honored the human spirit. Colleagues remember him as a visionary who transformed complex healthcare operations into elegant and efficient spaces.

Winkelman's journey began in Schenectady, New York, where he developed an early interest in architecture. After graduating from Rice University with a Master of Architecture degree, he served in the U.S. Navy before joining Caudill Rowlett Scott in Houston. Recruited by HOK cofounder Gyo Obata in 1980, Winkelman played a pivotal role in establishing HOK’s global Healthcare practice. His notable projects include Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Hospital in Indianapolis, Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, and the transformation of St. Louis’s Union Station. Winkelman's legacy continues through the generations of architects he mentored and the healing environments he created.

Pioneering Healthcare Design Innovations

Winkelman's contributions to healthcare architecture were nothing short of revolutionary. He introduced groundbreaking concepts that integrated hospital buildings seamlessly with their surroundings while ensuring they functioned optimally over time. His designs emphasized creating spaces that not only met medical needs but also fostered healing and well-being. Through meticulous planning and detailed sketches, Winkelman turned complex healthcare operations into functional and beautiful environments.

One of Winkelman's most remarkable abilities was his capacity to visualize and articulate intricate hospital operations. In design meetings, he would often close his eyes and meticulously describe patient flows, clinical interactions, and infrastructure adaptations. This skill allowed him to create mental models that were then translated into functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces. Projects like the Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Hospital in Indianapolis and Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center exemplify his commitment to blending cutting-edge design with practicality. These facilities not only provided top-tier medical care but also offered serene and supportive environments for patients and staff alike.

Transforming Urban Landscapes Beyond Healthcare

Beyond his impact on healthcare, Winkelman's architectural prowess extended to transforming urban landscapes. One of his most celebrated achievements was the revitalization of St. Louis’s historic Union Station. This $135 million project converted one of the largest U.S. rail terminals into a vibrant mixed-use development, preserving its grandeur while introducing modern amenities such as hotels, retail shops, and restaurants. Winkelman's ability to blend historical preservation with contemporary design showcased his versatility and foresight.

Throughout his career, Winkelman remained dedicated to pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation. His work at HOK included leading numerous landmark healthcare projects across the United States, including the comprehensive modernization of New York Presbyterian Hospital and the award-winning Center for Advanced Medicine at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. Even after retiring in 2012, Winkelman continued to influence the field as a healthcare design consultant and active participant in AIA programs and community planning initiatives. His passion for architecture never waned, and his legacy lives on through the transformative spaces he created and the architects he inspired.