Evidence-based healthcare design was applied at Hancock Geriatric Treatment Center, a 150-bed psychiatric intermediate care facility. Two primary patient challenges addressed with this geriatric population are yellowing vision and memory recall. Colors were selected by looking through a yellow-tinted film to ensure the colors were pleasing. Recognizable elements for patients relate to familiarity of “home” and activities enjoyed in their formative years-downtown shopping, movies, and church.

A central corridor connects the four patient wings. “Main street” was created to reflect the era through storefront shops with awnings and signage, a 35-foot movie marquee and interchangeable movie posters, barber/beauty shop with active barber pole, large-scale posters of interchangeable Virginia travel scenes, and chapel faéade flanked with wall sconces and stone urns with evergreens and park bench centrally located under clerestory natural light.

Patients enter living units through a familiar front door complete with wood millwork door header, resin panel sidelights, a classic urn with evergreens, and “house” number. The entry foyer provides a sense of home with artwork. A niche creates a “front porch” at the patient room. Contrasting color and a personalized shadow box assist the patient in locating his/her private room.

Patients have a circular hallway designed for wandering opportunities and exterior courtyards with seating and paved paths. Two team workstations have unobstructed views of these areas and dining/dayrooms.

The lobby resembles a “boutique hotel,” providing a comforting feeling to families with topiaries at the exterior drop-off point, soft seating, framed original artwork, and concierge-style desk.

Jury Comment: The “Main Street” concept is nice and I think it makes the feeling of the space more “experiential.”