CrescentCare

Reinforcing the client’s mission of “equitable healthcare for all” and bringing dignified care to several underserved populations of New Orleans—particularly the LGBTQIA community—this new Federally Qualified Health Center brings its spectrum of wellness care under one roof to create a “medical home” for all.

The multi-level medical building supports a unique story within, where a clinic and a community center combine to offer resources not only for treatment, but also health education, preventative services and empowerment methods. The services offered include prevention education, testing, treatment, counseling, outreach and support services such as a pharmacy, legal services and a food bank.

The design for this program-packed facility focuses on highlighting the patient experience—starting with a welcoming entry, straightforward organizational layout, and prioritizing daylight and visual access throughout. In addition, the heart of the design is a “Main Street” on the third floor that elevates the patient experience (both literally and emotionally) by providing a sophisticated, intimate reception and waiting zone that spans the length of building.

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This zone is infused with ambient lighting and clear wayfinding to help lower any anxiety or stress such doctor visits can elicit. Smaller waiting pods form “Neighborhoods” along Main Street that directly connect the patient to a multiplicity of clinics. The second floor includes a one-stop shop of services, plus additional administrative support spaces. The ground floor includes parking and a tenant space for a branch credit union.

By bringing patients, caregivers, medical professionals and the greater community together as partners in health and wellness, this new facility triples the CrescentCare’s capacity for service and aims to make meaningful impacts on health outcomes and quality of life in New Orleans.