Mental Health Clinic Addition

Above Group played a key role in expanding the Providence VA Medical Center’s mental health facilities, designing a 13,800 SF addition to the existing Phase 1 freestanding building, which supports a 15,300 SF mental health program area. This expansion consolidates the Homeless Veterans Program, Trauma Recovery, and Neuropsychology services into a modern, three-story outpatient mental health facility, replacing outdated structures such as Trailers 35 & 36, Building 14, and sections of the main hospital. The project strategically repurposed previously unusable sloped land while phasing the design to ensure seamless integration between Phase 1 and Phase 2, allowing shared use of the entry, waiting area, vertical circulation, and reception spaces.

Designed with future growth in mind, the new building meets VA Sustainable Design requirements, achieving a 30% reduction in energy consumption through innovative mechanical and electrical solutions. Above Group designed a high-efficiency HVAC system featuring a gas-fired condensing boiler and an air-cooled chiller with N+1 redundancy. The plumbing system extended domestic water service while integrating distribution and sanitary systems into the new facility. System controls use BACnet communication, seamlessly connecting to the existing direct digital control system. Electrical designs incorporated both normal and standby power, including a new switchboard and panel to support critical systems such as security, card readers, and IT infrastructure. Energy-efficient LED lighting complies with Rhode Island state codes and utilizes occupancy sensors and timing controls to minimize energy use.

Photography: Christian Scully / DIS