Michielli + Wyetzner Architects are helping to create a brand for off-site satellite health centers for the Callen-Lorde Community Health Center. Their new extension clinic combines mental health and primary care services in a single location in the underserved South Bronx. Located on the ground floor in a storefront space, the clinic contains exam rooms therapy rooms and support spaces.
Through design, a seamless experience is created for patients accessing their behavioral and medical care. The single setting provides licensed medical and mental health care ensuring that patients receive both services without conflict between the treatment plans or therapeutic regimens.
Upon entering the facility, an illuminated wall runs the length of the linear waiting room. Visible from the street, the glowing fascia provides a strong presence in the surrounding neighborhood. Large translucent windows provide abundant amounts of natural light from the sidewalk beyond. Designed as two separate pavilions, the reception stations for the clinic and a separate pharmacy contain lockable roll down gates for security.
Therapy and exam rooms, and support spaces are located off of a double loaded corridor at the rear. A high ceiling allows for large clerestory windows that bring natural light deep into the interior. Intended to relate to another Callen-Lorde clinic in Chelsea, vibrant colors and cork floors and metal baffle ceilings complete a warm and welcoming palette.