Public Health Department Office Remodel

Menendez Architects worked closely with members of the Eagle County Public Health Department to help realize their vision for completely remodeled office environment. The goal of the project was to create a client-centered and trauma-informed space that would:

• Be warm and welcoming to clients
• Be culturally responsive to and humanizing for the Eagle County community
• Be easy to navigate
• Inspire collaboration among staff
• Be flexible to meet current and future space needs
• Ensure safety

Built in 1932, the building presented remodeling challenges due to its interior concrete
bearing walls and low ceilings. The Waiting/Reception area lacked natural light due
to its central location.

As the first impression of the facility, the design of the Waiting/Reception Room was key in expressing the vision goals. Various forms of artificial lighting were used effectively to overcome the lack of natural light, add interest and increase the perceived size of the space. Reception was oriented to face the entry doors to create an immediate connection between clients and staff.

Elevated on a platform, receptionists sit at eye level with guests. Colorful stools provide seating for children at their scale. While wood tone finishes add warmth to the space, playful wall art
and shelving for toys and books further humanize the experience for children and adults.