To support its mission of increasing healthcare access for uninsured and low income residents in the surrounding area, the Memphis Health Center needed improvements to its existing facility located in downtown Memphis. A2H managed the clinic’s complete interior and exterior renovation. The facility was also expanded by an additional 6,800 square feet to accommodate a larger patient waiting area, offices, and a new pharmacy. Extra exam rooms were added, allowing the clinic to diversify its healthcare services.
The project involved reprogramming the clinic’s existing layout to improve patient/staff flow and to allow flexibility for future growth. Interior renovations, which included new flooring, fixtures, and finishes, were made to refresh the clinic with a modern look. A two-story volume was added to bring natural lighting throughout the clinic. The facility’s mechanical and electrical system also received multiple equipment upgrades.
As per the client’s needs, the expansion and renovation were executed in multiple phases so that the clinic could maintain operations during construction.
With a new lobby that welcomes patients through warm, natural lighting, the clinic now accommodates space for advancement of patient services. The expansion includes a new waiting area, a larger pharmacy, and extra examination rooms, allowing several services and administration offices to relocate from portable onsite trailers into a central space.
Prior to renovation, Memphis Health Center could serve approximately 15,000 patients annually. Now, with the addition of examination rooms and services, the 31,000 SF clinic can serve 27,500 patients each year.
DESIGN INTENT
The building was a determining factor in the revitalization and redevelopment of E.H. Crump Boulevard and was designed for growth projects; this project became a precedent for redevelopment in surrounding neighborhoods. The main metal volume does not simply end, but wraps around the adjoining volume, enclosing the structural and programmatic change. The overlap of volumes recalls the concept of intertwining not only the clinic with the community, but the different occupational clinics that inhabit the volumes.
SITE MANAGEMENT
The existing, multi-specialty clinic had expanded to fill their space past capacity. Using the existing program as a base, the floor plan was reorganized to allow for growth in departments and provide additional modalities. The central nurses station became a place for each clinic to use and creates a space of convergence. The site and site circulation were completely reworked to welcome patients into
the clinic and better serve the staff and faculty. It was critical that the entire site design effectively balance the often conflicting needs of security and openness to the community.
