El Pueblo Health Services
This new rural health clinic was designed on the site of the existing clinic in Bernalillo, New Mexico. The phasing of the plan was such that the existing clinic remained open during construction of the new project without hindering critical operations of the clinic or losing a day of service. The 7,200 sf new facility incorporates ten exam rooms, a laboratory, a procedure room, a provider's suite, administration offices, and a conference room/kitchen to be shared by the community. The medical facility proper is able to close off at night for community activities in the core of the building. The building is constructed of rammed earth, concrete, and stained cement panels. The design focuses on a sky-lit circular core that brings natural light to all areas of the building. The rammed earth construction and corrugated metal roof is sympathetic to the historic building types of semi-rural Bernalillo and was enthusiastically endorsed by Board of Directors members who were raised in the town. Patients experience a sense of dignity during times of need, in a facility that is generous in its design and construction with medical care of the highest caliber within. The staff of health care providers have stated that this facility has clearly increased the potential for quality health care. Soft, soothing colors in the interior spaces are part of the studied design decisions that developed the overall concept.
