MH



A collection of architectural works : ranging from the Mississippi Delta to the middle of the ocean...

Jackson Community Health Center is a response to a crucial need identified in the city of Jackson: a comprehensive community health center to serve the residents of downtown and the surrounding areas. This center will not only provide a much-needed amenity for the city, but also make living in downtown and surrounding areas a more viable option for many. The center will operate as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, focused on providing care for the underserved population in the area.

The center is designed to offer a wide range of services, including primary care, small procedural services, telehealth services, social services, counseling, dieticians, and access to a fully-functioning pharmacy for patients of the center and the general public. Additionally, the center can also host classes and medical seminars, and function as a teaching clinic, providing an opportunity for medical and nursing students to volunteer and shadow practitioners. The goal is to greatly benefit the community by providing access to affordable healthcare for all patients.

The site for the center was chosen for its strategic location on the northeast corner of Amite and Mill streets, across from a public transit hub and the viaduct. The building itself is designed to respond to a lack of density in the area, surrounded by larger buildings. The current site, a city parking lot, offers a blank slate for creating a new presence in the urban fabric of Jackson. The building design prioritizes a sense of welcoming yet secure atmosphere. The exterior facades are simple, featuring pre-cast concrete panels and glass, with each elevation being different, but forming a cohesive and legible whole. The building is centered around an inner courtyard that can be accessed by all who use it, providing natural light to almost all main spaces and improving patient and practitioner experience. The courtyard also serves to reduce feelings of anxiety or fear commonly associated with accessing healthcare. Security is also prioritized, with sightlines maintained from different control points throughout the building and staff presence to ensure safety. The hope is that this community health center will be loved and used by the community of Jackson for many years to come.


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