In the densest family-occupied census tract in St. Louis, the newest location for Family Care Health Centers is intentionally sited to serve the organization’s mission of providing health care to St. Louis’ most vulnerable populations. Formerly the site of St. Anthony’s hospital, the new location represents a coordinated partnership with Habitat for Humanity St. Louis, aligning the mission of two organizations at the entrance to St. Louis’ Dutchtown neighborhood. As a non-profit community health center, the project supports FCHC’s ability to provide affordable and accessible comprehensive primary health care, including medical, dental, nutrition & WIC, vision, and a heightened emphasis on behavioral health services at the new facility.
The project is organized to emphasize the well-being of both patients and staff that operate in stressful environments. Clinical spaces are designed with a hub-and-spoke concept, aligning “daylight portals” with key clinical groupings to emphasize connections to nature and access to natural light. The entire clinical program is organized on a single level to optimize accessibility, while curating the patient experience at key points to transition among different healthcare providers. The entire second floor is dedicated to staff space, creating organization-wide training space and a new suite for administrative offices. An expansive staff lounge flows to a south-facing terrace, serving as a place of respite and strengthening the projects connection to well being.
Embracing its location in Brick City, the project emphasizes subtle masonry detail to honor the historic tradition of masonry throughout the neighborhood. Contemporary metal panels with a deliberate color scheme clad the second floor, boldly announcing the clinic’s presence on a prominent corner where Family Care Health Centers can broaden their reach and continue to serve the St. Louis community.
