McNABB CENTER
The Emergency Psychiatric Assessment Treatment Healing (EmPATH) Unit
McNABB CENTER
EmPATH Unit
YEAR:
2024
LOCATION:
Knoxville, TN
SIZE:
14,000 SF
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
MHM worked with McNabb Center to design Tennessee’s first Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment, and Healing (EmPATH) unit. The 13,993 sq. ft. North Knoxville facility is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to provide individuals over 18 years old immediate access to psychiatric care for evaluation and medication in a calm, supportive, trauma-informed, therapeutic environment.
The facility includes a walk-in triage/reception center, triage exam rooms, EmPATH intake and cooldown rooms, medical exam rooms, a conference room, nursing stations, storage rooms, restrooms, a staff break room, and a large EmPATH milieu and dining space. The EmPATH milieu and dining space were a key component of this new treatment model. The intent of the space was to promote both a sense of independence and visibility for the patients.
The facility’s design provides thoughtful circulation and privacy. EmPATH units offer quiet space, comfortable recliners, and intentional finish strategies to promote a relaxing and healing environment. The EmPATH also highlights the re-use of the existing double-height space to allow natural light through the oversized windows. MHM's team designed the space using a simple finish palette, natural textures, and an emphasis on natural light to help patients feel comfortable and focus on treatment.
PHOTOGRAPHY: © Morgan Nowland / MHM
