West Tennessee Veterans Home

Southwest Tennessee has a rich history and culture, though a distinct architectural style is not completely evident since much of the Memphis region’s aesthetic comes from the need and function of a structure. The West Tennessee Veterans Home redefines that with a design utilizing existing building materials in the area of utilitarian materials such as brick, steel, and woodThe facility is designed in three separate buildings, two of which are neighborhoods of four houses. The third building is designated as the community center, where communal spaces are located for maximum visibility and an immediate ‘wow’ factor as you enter. A generous connection corridor, containing various gathering and seating areas, runs the length of the facility and maximizes the efficiency of staff and resident circulation. To allow for large gatherings of either the public or the residents, an exterior plaza extends from the main activity areas, connected with garage doors to allow for maximum flexibility. The Memphis prairie was a major influence on the design, as seen with an emphasis on horizontal lines and repeated elements.