The goal of a local health department is to provide support for an entire community to feel safe, healthy, and valued. Healthcare can often feel inaccessible to some of our most vulnerable community members. Add a monolithic and uninviting facility to the equation and the barriers feel even higher. This transformative initiative replaced a patchwork operation comprised of two buildings from the 1950s and 1970s with a modern, multi-purpose public space and created an impact far beyond its walls.

 

Where Form Meets Function

For community health initiatives to be effective, people must be willing to engage. The first step is creating a welcoming, approachable space. The design of the new Shelby County Health Department sought to create an environment that truly served the community—providing a space that was not only inviting, but also conveyed a sense of elevated care—far from the cold, sterile buildings of old. The new facility features an open, glass-heavy structure with exposed elements—a unique challenge due to the area’s high seismic activity. Now boasting clinic space, lab space, and office space, the facility is a central hub for community health services.

The success of this endeavor can be attributed to our team’s dedication to delivering a high-quality project and our ability to work together effectively. Engaging our MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing), civil, and structural disciplines streamlined coordination, especially when it came to the unique aesthetic design elements and seismic requirements. This collaborative spirit was evident across the entire design team, bringing a variety of diverse perspectives to the table.

 

Setting a New Standard

Beyond its designed purpose, the Shelby County Health Department has contributed significantly to the revitalization of the area. The new building is not just functional and inviting; it serves as a landmark, bridging the gap between the medical district and the surrounding neighborhood. This project has truly set a new standard for community health facilities. Most importantly, the facility has maintained its commitment to improving health outcomes for the local population, including those in public housing, without displacing them.

In summary, the Shelby County Health Department project is a shining example of what can be achieved through thoughtful design, meticulous planning, and effective collaboration. The project has not only replaced a once-dull building with a vibrant community hub but has also played a pivotal role in the broader revitalization of the neighborhood.

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