Veteran Affairs Renovates with DEI In Mind

6/7/2024

Veterans Affairs updated their Atlanta Regional Office into an inviting, veteran-centric environment that supports national pride and provides services and support for staff and visitors through flexible, welcoming spaces.  

In a four-phased approach to update all four floors of the office building, NELSON Worldwide worked in partnership with Higdon + Herring to create a modernized workspace for employees, as well as a “one-stop shop” of veteran-facing services within their building, including meeting spaces, hearing rooms, job lab, cafe, and patio.  

Prioritizing the users of this space and serving their needs efficiently and thoughtfully, the first-floor renovation reflects a commitment to justice, equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as recognizing the diverse needs of patients with PTSD. Cognizant of widespread difficulty in accessing necessary care and mental health services, the new space prioritizes a commitment to thoughtful, easy-to-navigate services.   

With built-in transparency and flexibility, the space breaks down barriers between departments, increasing connectivity and engagement among departments and with veterans. In addition to wellness initiatives, the renovated spaces emphasize security and safety as priorities throughout the space.  

Warm welcome 

Relocating the front entry to the glass, the hospitality forward lobby welcomes visitors and provides a pleasant waiting area, filled with the warmth of wood and natural daylight. 

Clear directions 

Glass-lined corridors with angled fronts act as clear wayfinding tools, helpfully leading visitors to their destinations.  

Calm conversations 

The conversations occurring in meeting rooms, counselor rooms, or hearing rooms could be sensitive in nature, and each space is consciously designed to provide a balance of comfort and safety.  

Connecting to nature 

Biophilic design elements evoke a sense of calm, providing a connection to nature through texture and layering of materiality of warm and wood tones.  

Honoring service 

The space pays homage to the military in subtle, but noticeable details, including the angularity of walls, pentagon-shaped tiles, and shield- or badge-like mirrors in the restrooms.