Behavioral Health Unit Expansion and Renovation

Mercyone North Iowa Medical Center

A two-story addition houses 34 beds for behavioral health inpatients and a renovation in an adjacent hospital area expands services. The program includes acute psychiatric care, separate adult and adolescent inpatient units, and partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient services. After the new units became operational, the center reported a 75% reduction in staff injuries.

The aesthetics are welcoming, calming, and designed to fit comfortably into the surrounding residential neighborhood. From the front door to assessment and treatment, all spaces are bright, open, and safe. The donor-funded Jan Again Center for Hope and Safety offers walk-in help and reduces the stigma surrounding mental health. Visitors can drop in for consultation, either with on-site staff or by using online resources available at a computer station.

BWBR served as the design architect in partnership with local firm of record RDG.