VAMC BROCKTON MH REC CENTER

Brockton, MA

Blue seats and a green lawn extend the VAMC Brockton Recreation Center into the outdoors
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The Veterans Administration mental health inpatient recreation center is a much needed single multifunction space to serve the veterans in treatment in the adjacent locked wards. The intent is to provide room-like alcoves, to allow residents the opportunity for recreation and personal time, while still allowing staff good visual command.

Patients exercise in a window-filled room at the VAMC Brockton Recreation Center

One side of the building is defined by a thick, heavy brick wall with built-in casework. This isolates the interior recreation space from the commotion of the parking and loading dock. On the opposite side of the new addition, an extensive glass wall allows the main spaces to visually extend to the outdoor recreation lawn, focusing views on the new space for relaxation and enjoyment.

Light wood storage cabinets and full height windows brighten the VAMC Brockton Recreation Center
The VAMC Brockton Recreation Center facade, of light colored bricks, unravels with the landscape

The building is dynamic as one walks around it. The shift in plan to accommodate existing infrastructure and the interplay of three simple roof slopes continually change one’s perception.

Warm, light, natural colors enliven and brighten the VAMC Brockton Recreation Center

Deep overhangs provide shade for building and establish outdoor rooms that can be used even during moderately inclement weather.

A thin, single stainless steel column elegantly supports the large metal overhang at the VAMC Brockton Recreation Center
The VAMC Brockton Recreation Center glows with light and a feeling of openess
Patients lounge and surf the web in the VAMC Brockton Recreation Center

Type: Healthcare – New Construction
Client: Department of Veteran Affairs
Size: ±3,500 sf
Location: Brockton, MA
Status: Completed 2013
Credits: Architect: William Pevear at Payette. Civil Engineer: CDW. Structural Engineer: LIM Consultants. MEP & FP Engineer: BR+A. Photography: Keitaro Yoshioka.


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