Sentara Healthcare, PACE Norfolk

Sentara Healthcare commissioned McMillan Pazdan Smith to design a new home for an existing PACE program in Norfolk, Virginia that would allow them to serve a larger participant population, as well as provide a better overall environment for participants and staff. The 13,700 SF upfit within an existing shopping center complex is designed to support the delivery of medical and supportive services needed for participant’s care within the PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) program.

Spaces include an administrative suite with conference / multi-purpose space, catering kitchen, outdoor patio area, and a clinic with on-site physicians and medication dispensary — as well as a physical therapy suite. To accommodate patients with sensory overload, small, quiet relaxation rooms were designed to provide sound isolation and use translucent glazing to reduce visual / aural stimuli. In addition, a new drop-off lane and canopy was designed to facilitate entry into the building for participants with limited mobility. The upfit was constructed with the intention to create a safe, secure, comfortable, and engaging space for its growing population with special consideration given to colors and finishes that are proven to be safe and more easily perceivable by elderly occupants.