From Call Center to Community Care: Teh Adaptive Reuse of the SAC Health Brier Campus
The healthcare landscape is evolving, and with it, the ways we approach building and delivering care. Increasingly, innovative solutions like adaptive reuse are proving vital in expanding access to essential services while prioritizing sustainability and community well-being. The recently opened SAC Health Brier Campus in San Bernardino, California, exemplifies this approach, transforming a former call center into a comprehensive healthcare hub.
A Commitment to Sustainability & Community
At the heart of this project lies a strong commitment to responsible building practices. Reusing the existing building envelope and systems significantly minimized landfill waste and reduced carbon emissions. This approach not only benefits the environment but also demonstrates a dedication to the local community.
The brier Campus boasts an notable 158,000 square feet dedicated to clinical, dental, behavioral health, and specialty care. Additionally, it includes 88,000 square feet for administrative and support areas, a 30,000-square-foot express care clinic, and a 4,000-square-foot community resource center.
Designing for the Patient Experience
Creating a welcoming and healing environment was paramount throughout the design process. Patient-focused features were thoughtfully integrated into both clinical and administrative spaces. these include:
* Daylighting to enhance mood and well-being.
* Mountain views offering a calming connection to nature.
* Pleasant seating nooks for relaxation and privacy.
* Natural textures creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The existing structureS open floor plan and grid system facilitated creative layouts and innovative flooring methods. These solutions addressed structural challenges efficiently, without adding unnecessary weight or cost.
A Vision for the Future of Healthcare
“Transforming a former call center into today’s SAC Health Brier Campus was an incredible opportunity to demonstrate how thoughtful design can directly impact community health,” explains jeffrey Dreesman, principal and director of medical planning at Perkins&Will. “Our team focused on creating a flexible, patient-centered environment that not only meets the immediate needs of San Bernardino’s residents but can evolve to serve the community for decades to come. By combining adaptive reuse, modular design and biophilic principles, we aimed to deliver a facility that supports healing, accessibility and well-being for all who enter.”
Economic & Community Impact
the benefits of the Brier Campus extend beyond healthcare delivery. The new facility is projected to add over 200 healthcare and support positions, providing a notable boost to the local economy. This investment demonstrates a commitment to not only the health of the community but also its economic vitality.
Adaptive Reuse: A scalable Solution
The opening of the Brier campus highlights the potential of adaptive reuse as a strategy for expanding healthcare access. By reimagining existing infrastructure, organizations like SAC Health can deliver scalable, enduring solutions that address both environmental and community concerns. This model offers a promising path forward for transforming underutilized buildings into essential public-serving facilities.
Ultimately, the SAC Health Brier Campus represents a forward-thinking approach to healthcare design and delivery. It’s a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of the community it serves. You can be confident that this facility will provide accessible, high-quality care for years to come.