Project category: New construction

Chief administrator: Michael Ogden, program director

Firms: Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), www.phmc.org; Bradberry & Kheradi, www.bradberrykheradi.com

Design team: Public Health Management Corporation (design concept and project direction); Bradberry & Kheradi (architectural design); Richard J. Cohen, president and CEO, Rhonda Coleman, managing director real estate and facilities (Public Health Management Corporation); Nancy Bradberry, owner; Sandy Kheradi, owner (Bradberry & Kheradi)

Photography: Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC); Matt Wargo

Total building area (sq. ft.): 24,000

Construction cost/sq. ft.: Not available

Total construction cost (excluding land): Not available

Completed: February 2014

In building The Bridge, an affiliate of Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), a leading nonprofit public health institute serving Philadelphia and the surrounding region since 1972, we set out to forward our belief in design-driven culture.

Our objective was to create a space to serve as the center-point for a residential and outpatient behavioral health services program that has treated youth for more than 40 years. The project needed to represent the transformation that residents experience when participating in the program.

We were looking to create a beautiful facility that demonstrates a commitment to innovation, ultimately helping residents feel better about themselves throughout their recovery.

Our plan called for 50-plus beds for residents with accompanying facilities and lounge space; an area for outpatient services; a fully-functioning school with well-lit, airy classrooms; a kitchen and large-scale cafeteria and auditorium; a game room, fitness room, workshop and theater; and outdoor grounds for physical activity.

Central to the site is the “inspiration wall” as the cornerstone of the four murals throughout the space. The wall features inspirational quotes from world leaders, religious leaders, activists, writers, musicians, athletes and celebrities. It was developed with the direct input from staff and residents.