Designing modern healthcare facilities in historic spaces

Desmond T. Doss Health Clinic - Design and Engineering Services

The Defense Health Agency (DHA) provides ready, reliable care to the U.S. Armed Forces and their families in both peacetime and wartime. As demand for medical services in Hawaii increased, DHA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers identified the need for a responsive, intuitive, and resilient medical facility to better serve our military. The new Desmond T. Doss Health Clinic at the historic Schofield Barracks fills this critical need through world-class outpatient care.

We focused our design on patient care, featuring a family-centered environment that promotes better healing outcomes while maximizing patient and staff safety. The clinic is divided into three floors, each addressing patient needs—dental, behavioral health, and physical therapy. Using evidence-based design principles, we included interior and exterior areas of respite and access to daylight. These features support the employee environment and enhance the medical team’s ability to perform their work, improving patient care and job satisfaction.

Located in a nearly 100-year-old historic medical district on the National Register of Historic Places, the clinic balances modern healthcare demands with the established standards of the historic site. The new facility respects the campus’ distinct style and incorporates local architecture, including lush rooftop terraces and an open-air lanai that embrace Hawaii’s picturesque climate while creating healing, peaceful spaces.

The design also prioritized resilience and flexibility, addressing climate challenges while allowing for future growth. A hybrid precast concrete and steel structure enhances durability, mitigates structural risks, and incorporates a large underground area for future expansion.