Mental health is one of the most critical and underserved “hidden crises’” facing our communities today. This crisis has only escalated in the past six months where societal fears, anxieties and social isolation have been daily themes surrounding the global pandemic. During these turbulent times, having access to high-quality mental healthcare services has never been more important.
Fortunately, the Jonas Hill Hospital & Outpatient Clinic recently opened its doors to offer hope, healing and treatment to families and individuals struggling with mental health issues.
Located on a rolling site adjacent to UNC Caldwell Memorial Hospital in Lenoir, NC, Jonas Hill had its grand opening in July 2020. Using holistic, team-based care, this community-minded facility is truly unique in that it combines both inpatient and outpatient services in a setting that supports healing, and promotes community awareness and involvement.
Complete with 27 beds for adult inpatient behavioral health hospitalization, Jonas Hill is equipped to treat a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse. The facility’s integrated outpatient clinic (expected to open in 2021) will provide additional education and resources to patients and their families including behavioral health evaluations, medication management, and therapy/counseling.
CPL Architect and Project Manager, Robin Washco, AIA, NCARB, said that providing safety and security for patients and staff within a healing environment were the key drivers during the design process.
“The facility was designed to incorporate open concept architecture with high ceilings and ample natural light,” said Washco. “The goal was to eliminate dark, confined spaces and encourage optimal interactions between patients and staff, as well as nature wherever possible. Lighting was also a huge focus throughout the design as we know it has substantial impacts on a patient’s overall health, wellbeing and natural circadian rhythm.”
Additionally, all furniture, finishes and equipment used throughout the facility were thoughtfully and intentionally selected to foster a safe, soothing and non-institutional environment for patients. Ensuring no harm could potentially be brought onto one’s self or others was a top priority.
CPL Interior Designer, Molly Livingstone, NCIDQ, said the design selections were centered around natural elements with relaxed palettes to create a serene space for healing.
“The client emphasized a desire to bring in a mix of familiar and abstract imagery to help patients feel calm, while still keeping their safety in mind,” Livingstone explained. “That led our team to incorporate the well-known Blue Ridge Mountain scenery, painted by a local artist, into the group rooms. We also emphasized muted tones, natural woods, and regional materials to keep with the comfortable theming intentions.”
“Every single detail was considered to ultimately achieve a comfortable and secure environment that respects the wellbeing of everyone who enters it,” added Washco.
Jonas Hill also boasts a large outdoor courtyard with a walking track and spaces for music therapy, yoga, meditation and exercise. Designed for healing, the facility in its entirety provides transformative, clinically integrated, high-quality mental health care for members of the community.
