Field Log
Built with Grit and Heart: A new room for teens at CHOC children's hospital
Take a look at our teen hospital room transformation at CHOC, and see how we created a cozy and fun space for their teen patients.
When the Conroy family approached us about a very special project at the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), we knew right away this would be one of the most meaningful projects we’d ever work on. With hearts of gold and a deep connection to the cause, Jim and Gretchen Conroy set out to create something the hospital was missing: a space designed specifically for the teens undergoing cancer treatment on the oncology floor.So when they asked us to design + manufacture a hospitality bar, we couldn’t help but say yes!
CHOC is short for the Children's Hospital of Orange County, and is committed to being a leading destination for children’s health by providing exceptional and innovative care. They provide everything from NICU and trauma services to long-term cancer treatments. And while CHOC has many beautifully designed spaces for little kids, they needed a special healing space for teen patients.
Teens at CHOC often spend days, weeks, and sometimes months in treatment. Between the isolation, the physical toll of chemotherapy, and the mental weight of it all, having a space to escape is so vital. The Conroys, parents to two teen boys themselves, felt a deep pull to change that.
With their support and generosity, we were honored to redesign, build, and style a flex room, kitchen, and bathroom into a teen-only zone that would offer comfort, connection, and creativity. Being trusted with this teen hospital room transformation was humbling and unforgettable.
Jim and Gretchen’s vision was clear. A space that felt like a brewery lounge, not a medical space. They wanted the lighting to feel moody and calm. They wanted big screens for movies and gaming. They wanted places for music, art, laughter, and even quiet.
We wanted every detail to be warm, modern, and functional to create an inviting and cozy space the teens would love. We made the kitchen feel like one you’d find at home, and even stocked the bathroom with teen-friendly touches. There’s a comfy couch for teens to chill on, and even a record player, guitar, and keyboard for some much needed music.
BUT OUR FAVORITE PROJECT?
A custom-built pop-a-shot basketball game. We didn’t want it to feel like a cheesy arcade game, and instead crafted a one-of-a-kind piece made from real wood and leather. It even includes a built-in bookshelf filled with games and books, for even more function.
It’s only been a couple of months since the project has finished, but already we’re hearing some amazing stories from CHOC staff. Recently, a teen had a surprise birthday party. When they walked into the room, all of their friends were on the LED screens over Zoom, wishing them a happy birthday. We’ve also heard that teens are leaving each other notes on the chalkboard and photo wall, and others are bonding over music playing on the record player.
Walking through the CHOC oncology floor changes you. Everywhere you look there’s profound courage. These teens are so unbelievably brave. And so are their families. It’s a huge reminder of just how precious life is.
“I’m a mom of two little boys, and this project hit home in more ways than I can say. In that hospital, witnessing these amazing brave teens fight every day, changes you in a big way. Every worry I’ve ever had about anything else melted away”
- Jaime Holm, Tinker Tin Founder and VP of design
We’re so grateful to Jim and Gretchen Conroy for trusting us with this gift. Their compassion, generosity, and heart made this space possible. And to the teens who now fill it with music, laughter, games, conversations, and friendship, we’re honored to have played a small part in your journey.
