Veterans Affairs Medical Center Behavioral Health Complex
Veterans Affairs Medical Center Behavioral Health Complex
A veteran-centered residential care community planned around the Small House Model, creating a therapeutic neighborhood that promotes independence, social connection, operational efficiency, and long-term flexibility.
Recognizing that returning Iraq War veterans needed a different care model to support their diverse behavioral health needs, the Veterans Administration (VA) in Lebanon, PA developed a patient-centered approach. Array was engaged to design a new 21,500 SF outpatient behavioral health complex. Within the new facility, an open concept simplifies wayfinding to promote ease of navigation. The care model emphasizes group therapy sessions in a relaxed home-like environment with specialized therapists and doctors present to help address each patient’s unique care needs. Veterans have convenient access to a vocational rehab training kitchen and computer lab with laptops for patients to check-out for use at home to help encourage professional development. As part of the Veteran Administrations expressed goal of an open and inviting entry space, Array proposed a soaring two-story common space, drawing from the regional barn vernacular. The strength of the repetitive wood trusses are meant to convey the solid foundational permanence of the VA and the respect conferred to these deserving veterans on their healing journey to hope and wellness. The inviting hearth, public café with indoor and outdoor seating, serve as communal gathering zones for veterans and their care providers to engage in more casual and open dialogue.
