This weekend, Universal Metro, Inc. earned the Silver Award in the Unique Installation Challenge category at the Starnet Commercial Flooring Design Awards. The recognition highlights our expertise in healthcare flooring installation and our ability to deliver complex projects under demanding conditions.

The award-winning project was distinguished by strict OSHPD (Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development) requirements, intricate flooring designs, ongoing moisture concerns, and a phased construction schedule that allowed an acute care facility to remain fully operational during nearly two years of construction.

We’re proud to be recognized for this achievement, and we extend gratitude to our skilled installation team, vendor partnerships, and design collaborators at c|a Architects in Long Beach, CA.

Project Overview:

New Cath Lab Suite at Placentia-Linda Hospital

The project focused on the construction of a new Cardiac Catheterization (Cath) Lab Suite at Placentia-Linda Hospital, part of an ongoing investment to enhance patient care.

• Design by c|a Architects: The existing admin area was transformed into a spacious, family-friendly waiting area, an efficient Cath Lab, and new staff support spaces.

• Patient-Centered Design: The suite features a warm finish palette that aligns with the hospital’s standards. The waiting area incorporates nature-inspired textures, soothing patterns, and a nourishment bar to enhance comfort for families.

• Collaborative Planning: The design team worked closely with the hospital and GE Healthcare to ensure efficient layout and functionality. Adjustable peg boards and versatile perimeter storage create an optimized, high-performance clinical environment.

  or more examples of how we create patient-centered design environments, see our recent projects.

Tackling the Unique Installation Challenge

Working in occupied hospitals is always challenging, but in California, OSHPD regulations add an extra layer of complexity. Universal Metro’s team managed a phased, two-year construction schedule that demanded consistency in dye-lots across six separate phases while ensuring minimal disruption to patient care.

Moisture Control Solutions

One of the largest obstacles was addressing inherent slab moisture issues. Our team partnered with ARDEX Technical Service Division to engineer a custom flooring solution capable of handling:

• High RH levels

• Seismic cracks

• Wide cold joints

• Long-term warranty requirements

The solution included shot blasting, dual applications of ARDEX MC Rapid with sand broadcasts, and self-leveling with ARDEX K10. As an ARDEX LevelMaster Elite Installer, we were able to extend the warranty an additional five years beyond the standard coverage.

Infection Control & Phased Scheduling

With patient safety as the top priority:

• Negative air containment with HEPA filters was used to maintain infection control while work continued in adjacent occupied spaces.

• Crews operated in extremely tight conditions, often working just feet from active medical procedures.

• Flooring designs were executed in phases, ensuring seamless transitions as containment zones shifted.

Overcoming Unexpected Challenges

During construction, three slab leaks required sections of the flooring system to be reinstalled. Through careful product management and use of attic stock, our team avoided unsightly patching and maintained design continuity.

This ability to adapt under pressure showcased not only technical expertise but also commitment to quality, safety, and patient-centered construction.

Why This Project Stands Out

This award-winning installation represents the very best of what Universal Metro, Inc. delivers:

• Advanced solutions for healthcare flooring challenges

• Expertise in OSHPD-regulated construction

• Proven ability to manage multi-phase projects in occupied facilities

• Long-term partnerships with leading product manufacturers like ARDEX

Conclusion

Receiving the Starnet Silver Award at the commercial flooring design awards is more than just an industry honor for Universal Metro—it’s a reflection of the passion, dedication, and care our entire team brings to every project. This recognition celebrates not only our commitment to commercial flooring excellence, but also the spirit of collaboration with our trusted vendor partners and the thoughtful vision of c|a Architects. Together, we turned challenges into opportunities, creating a space that serves patients, families, and staff with comfort and dignity. We are truly humbled and grateful to be recognized for work that makes a meaningful difference.