On May 22, 2011, St. John's Hospital in Joplin was seriously damaged by a massive category EF5 tornado, with winds estimated at 200 mph. It ranks as one of Missouri's and America's deadliest tornadoes and is also the costliest single tornado in U.S. history ($2.8 billion).

At least four people were killed inside the hospital and grounds, with the building sustaining major structural damage. One of the hospital’s towers took a direct hit by the storm and was rotated four inches on its foundation. The damaged hospital was structurally unsafe and St. John’s (now known as Mercy Hospital) announced they would rebuild so that they could continue to serve the Joplin community.

An ambitious project, the proposed new 839,110 square foot hospital was to be located on 100 acres, with multiple entries, courtyards, and shuttle stations within the parking lots. SWT Design was a member of the design team selected to work on this compelling undertaking. As part of their responsibility, SWT needed to specify site furnishings to outfit the new Mercy.

Though on a fast-approaching deadline for Mercy's grand opening, SWT needed a large number of outdoor benches, tables, chairs, trash and recycling receptacles to complete the project. To collaborate on this challenge, SWT contacted Anova, known as an exceptionally responsive site furnishings manufacturer with fast lead times and superior quality products.