Central State Hospital.

RRMM, serving as the Associate Architect to EYP, is currently designing the new Central State Hospital project in Petersburg, VA. The 471,000 SF facility will provide 252 in-patient beds, including 111 maximum security and 141 civil beds. The project includes patient treatment/program areas along with administrative and support services space. The design delineates treatment areas for maximum security and civil patients and incorporates secure enclosed courtyards for outdoor recreation of individuals committed for care. It also anticipates a future 48-bed addition.

This 252-bed facility functions as two distinct hospitals in one: a civil/forensic and a maximum-security facility. Although physically attached, the two environments remain completely separate and cater to the specific needs of each population. The basketweave, zig-zag formation of the treatment area creates secure enclosed courtyards without requiring fencing. Inside, two treatment malls and five program communities create a bridge between the living units and the treatment malls.

Back-to-back living units on the periphery reduce the need for dedicated support space and range from 15 to 28 beds based on acuity and medical complexity. Despite the shared footprint, the design uses mechanical systems to support one virus isolation unit on each side. East-facing living units give patients optimal views of the natural landscape, while administrative and support spaces sit on the west side. Above the single-story hospital, enclosed systems access reduces both site fencing and maintenance disruptions to the therapeutic environment.

The design prioritizes parity between patient and staff spaces by using consistent forms, materials, and design language. The main reception desk mirrors the treatment mall and living unit desks, which function as open secure staff stations to reduce stress and aggression. These welcoming, open control points discourage patient climbing, minimize cones of observation, and allow staff to focus more directly on patient care.

Access to nature plays a central role for both patients and staff. The facility includes multiple staff courtyards, observable unescorted patient courtyards at each living unit. It also includes additional courtyards connected to the program communities or treatment malls. The building’s shape maximizes natural light and views of nature, while biophilic elements reinforce these goals. The biophilic elements consist of board-formed exterior concrete, a nature-inspired interior material palette, and environmental graphic design. Tunable lighting in the dayrooms supports patients’ circadian rhythms and supplements natural daylight.

Double-height common rooms adjacent to the courtyards, lobby, living units, and treatment malls feature ample glazing that creates a warm, friendly atmosphere for patients and visitors. These welcoming “front porches” support social events and contribute to a park-like environment. From these spaces, one can witness the hope and impact of a facility designed to serve generations of Virginians.