MTA, the Coordinating Professional and Architect of Record, and Acorn Design worked together to develop 22,000 sq.ft. of space on 2 floors for clinical support, administration and front-of-house components. Due to the sensitivity and importance of the services provided by AASC to their clients, the move from one clinic to the next was conducted in such a manner as to not disrupt client services. Numerous security and acoustical provisions were incorporated into the space for the safety and privacy of clients and staff, including such considerations as:  

• the mounting of security devices to built-in millwork and for use with moveable furnishings; 

• safe rooms that minimize opportunities for self-harm; 

• security panel dividers between staff and the public with particular care in the detailing of the millwork dimensions and materials to limit the ability for a staff member to be grabbed and chocked; 

• dual entrances/exits to rooms to limit contact between occupants and provide a safe means of exiting; 

• the application of CPTED principles throughout the space. 

Services pertaining to the FF&E scope of work included: 

• documentation, assessment and coordination of existing FF&E items for disposal, reuse, and relocation; 

• frequent meetings with FF&E vendors to finalize specifications and refine quotes; 

• selection, specification and administration of the procurement of all new FF&E items and movers in coordination with move consultant; 

• documentation and coordination, including temporary storage, of the move with new and repurposed FF&E items; 

• collection, review and approval of quotes, orders, submittals and installation through to deficiency reviews; 

• the movement and storage of physical Health Records; 

• FF&E items, including modular partitions, supported in the creation of dual-sided observation rooms adjacent to interview rooms; products that minimized opportunities for self-harm; specifications for furnishings that can withstand being thrown or stood on, without spaces for drug paraphernalia, hygienic materials, and easily cleanable.

Photography by: PHOTOPHILCRO/Phil Crozier