Detail

ORT/LAND Washington DC, USA
AUSSTATTUNG Wartezone
PLANUNG Perkins+Will @perkinswill
FOTOSGRAF (c) Eric Laignel Photography

Founded as an affirming health center for the gay and lesbian community in 1978, Whitman-Walker was one of the first responders to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in D.C. and became a leader in HIV/AIDS education, prevention, diagnosis and treatment." - from the internet. Whitman-Walker Health occupies 28,000 square feet of second floor space at the Elizabeth Taylor Center where its research, administrative, and legal teams reside—about 40 employees. The primary medical facility moved down the street to another building. Here, the architect introduced shades of color into the space to create a dynamic environment that reflects the diverse and vibrant LGBTQ community it serves. Colorful furnishings and large graphics were also introduced into the design to enliven the office. Since the Whitman-Walker patient population have compromised immune systems, the design team also introduced non-chemical materials, ultraviolet water treatments, and mechanical systems that inhibit bacterial growth.