Canadian Blood Services established a national network of community-based plasma donor centres designed to support life-saving therapies while redefining the donor experience through welcoming, donor-focused environments.

Challenge
Canadian Blood Services identified a need for plasma-only donation centres that could support increasing demand while creating social, engaging, and welcoming environments for donors. The program required a scalable approach that could be adapted to multiple locations across Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia while maintaining a consistent donor experience.
Solution
We designed three initial plasma donor centres as proof-of-concept locations before supporting the expansion of the program nationwide. Donor-centric environments are organized around social and recovery zones overlooking the collection area, with pod clusters arranged to encourage social engagement while maintaining clear connections between staff and donors. Natural light, warm materials, accessibility features, and reflection rooms support CBS’s commitment to creating welcoming and inclusive spaces, while back-of-house areas and integrated building systems support plasma collection, processing, and storage requirements.
Outcome
The success of the pilot locations led to the expansion of the program into communities across Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. The scalable design framework supports efficient operations, consistent donor experiences, and increased access to plasma donation services that contribute to life-saving therapies and treatments.

Donor-centric pod clusters encourage social connection during plasma donation
The functional program and design standards developed for the donor centre network form the foundation for approximately 20 facilities planned across Canada.
A wood slat ceiling adds warmth and defines the space

Reflection rooms support an inclusive and welcoming donor experience
