The project mission was to provide safe and healthy environment for all those involved in the unit, including patients, staff and family. This was achieved by providing staff with visual and acoustic awareness of key social and circulation spaces from an open nursing station positioned to maximize informal control of the secured unit by positioning the station in the center of the primary circulation for the unit. Key social activity and dining spaces are observed directly from the control station via open glazing. While the concern for patient safety via “psychsafe” selections was paramount, there was a parallel concern for shaping a normalizing and inviting environment.
