VAMC Martinsburg Healing Garden, Dementia Unit CLC

SAAarchitects (a partner of S2 Ventures) provided architectural and engineering services for a new healing garden, kitchen and dining area and for access from the CLC facilities. The project consisted of the demolition and renovation of pre-existing patient bed area into a welcoming dining area and new full service kitchen with new restroom facilities.

The Healing Garden became an outdoor courtyard extension of the dining area and features a self-sustaining landscape design, seasonal and perennial flower beds, walkways benches, tables and chairs for outdoor activities and resting. Courtyard also includes water features such as fountains and waterways, natural plants, shrubs, ground cover and ornamental trees, low maintenance design, and secure perimeter fence. Canopy construction is steel beam and column with roof material of clear polycarbonate allowing light into the covered area as well as into the interior space.

The design integrates Planetree and Green House design principles and philosophies for patient-centered care with the technical and space criteria for a Community Living Center with the goal of enhancing the healing process with a residential stimulating environment.