A new outpatient clinic for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is open in Lakeland, Florida. At 132,000 square feet — five times larger than the former local clinic — the facility houses 90 primary care exam rooms, 24 mental health treatment rooms, 24 specialty clinic spaces, four audiology booths and a radiology department. Additionally, the facility includes a dedicated lab, a full-scale pharmacy, an optometry suite, a podiatry department and a physical therapy suite with dedicated prosthetics fitting.
Patient parking at the front of the site, along with a covered drop-off area on the front of the building, creates easy access for visitors. The building façade features a mix of concrete and metal panels, aligning with the Veterans Affairs’ brand, while light gray and blue metallics interspersed across the exterior were inspired by the Florida Scrub Jay. The interior palette also reflects Florida’s natural habitat.
Large expanses of windows on all sides of the building flood public corridors and waiting areas with natural light. The reception area is demarcated by wood paneling and a cool-toned carpet pattern was inspired by the movement of water. A sleek honor wall prominently displays military branch seals. The project team includes Gresham Smith, Molasky Development and The Korte Company.
