The Havenscourt Health Center is a school based community health clinic located in a developing neighborhood in Oakland, California. The program included a new clinic in an existing interior school building that originally housed a woodshop. Our idea was to create a bright and welcoming environment that distinguishes itself from the otherwise inconspicuous school facility. The space needed to feel safe and welcoming to the students and their families who were not used to the healthcare in general.

The design concept started from a centralized reception that allowed the minimal staff to oversee the clinic. Then the reception was placed off axis to allow the main entry to break away from the existing building envelop. This allowed the façade of the clinic to be created, pointing toward the entry traffic. Off axis design was also implemented vertically to enhance the natural light. Sloped ceiling that houses interior exam rooms and spaces reflect light entering from the transom windows to brighten up the space. Interior skylights were added in the sloped ceiling to provide the natural connection within the exam and the other interior spaces.

Materials were selected to consider cost, durability, sustainability, and foremost the design. Gloss white plastic laminate cabinetry was a cost effective alternative that provided easy-to-clean, and durable finish. Plywood backing and adhesives were specified to meet the low VOC requirements. Linoleum flooring was selected for both durability and sustainability aspects. Accent color was introduced and carried throughout the various materials.

The project elements included exam rooms, consulting rooms, triage, dental clinic, offices, conference room, reception and restrooms. The project was designed to meet the OSHPD 3 licensed clinic requirements and was overseen by the Division of the State Architect plan review process.