december 2012 kristy bokelman master of architecture graduate thesis restoring a forgotten chapel to bring new hope to veterans suffering from ptsd
adagio for healing
AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL P
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introduction
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site selection
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historic preservation
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precedent study
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design proposal
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conclusion
contents
adagio for healing master of architecture graduate thesis kristy lynn bokelman december 2012 university of wisconsin - milwaukee school of architecture and urban planning
introduction
Conversation Day I went for a walk the other day Decided I wanted to have a talk I wanted to have a serious conversation The problem is that I can’t talk and walk at the same time My brain doesn’t work that way Thinking of what to say takes time Walking is a destination No time for conversation So I decided to slow down Maybe that would help Maybe I didn’t need to sit down Maybe I didn’t need to think as much Just slow down and talk I like to walk Funny, it helps Clears my mind Especially if you have the time I decided today would be a good conversation day If only I had something serious to say James Heavy Hackbarth June 27, 2011
Veterans from all American wars are treasured and valuable assets to our nation. Sometimes they are also forgotten heroes. As a civilian, I believe that a great opportunity to honor these brave men and women can be found through architecture. There are various ways to accomplish this, specifically within health care. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one of the most private and silent sufferings that many veterans, from every war, unfortunately endure. There are currently 23 Veterans Affairs health care facilities in the state of Wisconsin, but only 3 of those specifically treat PTSD. Within those campuses, there are varying degrees of treatment options for veterans, many which are general and non-specialized. There are also a number of theories on the most effective treatment strategies. Through my thesis, I will specifically study the abandoned chapel on the Milwaukee Veterans Affairs campus and propose how this building can be re-purposed as a specialized art therapy treatment facility. By re-using and carefully adding onto this beautiful building that already exists, I will prove that it is possible to bring life into these valuable resources. Combining new and historic architecture will create a tranquil facility for veterans of the past present and future to begin healing the wounds of war. My goal is to combine new and historical architecture to create a tranquil facility for Veterans of the past, present and future begin to heal the wounds of war.
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introduction
State of Wisconsin Veteran Health Care Locations VA health care facilities PTSD treatment centers
AREA OF FOCUS Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center 5000 W. National Avenue
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a·da·gio [uh-dah-joh, -zhee-oh; Italian ah-dah-jaw] 1. Music. in a leisurely manner; slowly I have had the honor of being the proud daughter, granddaughter and niece of brave men who have stood in the face of battle. War stories were told around the campfire, but usually were edited for younger ears. Although my father doesn’t often speak of the nightmares he lived through in Vietnam, I know that he chooses to use his experiences in a different way. He volunteers most of his time to his local Vietnam Veterans chapter, through which, he has shown me the importance of never forgetting those who cannot forget. Many of our veterans have returned from war unable to adapt back to civilian life. Usually most are significantly changed by their experiences and are not the same person they were prior to deployment. Upon return, each war has produced a different kind of veteran. From different technologies and fighting strategies, different geographies, and even the drastically different homecomings each generation has received have been just a few factors which shaped the mental and physical strains on each era of veteran. Even the various terms used in years past to diagnose residual mental conditions of the post-war are a testament to the varying degrees of their severity. Soldier’s Heart, War Malaise, Battle Fatigue, and Shell Shock were all commonly used labels for what is commonly known today as Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD). There is a broad range of suffering for those with this condition, affecting a person physically as well as mentally.
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introduction
Two main types of treatment facilities that exist are called outpatient and in-patient clinics. Out-patient care centers are generally utilized by veterans who seek individual sessions with counselors, psychiatrists or psychologists, but do not reside within the facility. These veterans may recover after a short time of counseling, others continue for many years. It is also common for these types of facilities to treat patients with other sources of PTSD such as assault, abuse, or natural disasters, to name a few. In-patient treatment centers are commonly highly specialized in treating specific causes. The patients of these clinics live on the campus and receive a greater comprehensive treatment, receiving around the clock care. Although these patients may receive a higher amount of care, it is still important to consider that they still may have a broad range of severity. The sizes of these in-patient clinics are generally smaller in their footprint to provide a more home-like atmosphere, and less of an institutional quality. Historically, many war veterans that suffered from mental conditions were sent to insane asylums which were commonly built around the time of the Civil War. Some of these asylums were even temporarily re-purposed as soldier’s homes after the war. In 1865, the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers was established and its purpose was to care for returning soldiers. Many of the Veterans Hospitals that are in existence today were a result of this effort. For instance, the Milwaukee VA Medical Center was one of the first branches of this effort, originally called the Northwestern Branch.
LCpl James R. Bokelman, USMC, Vietnam 1968-1969
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Throughout the subsequent decades and wars that followed, the NHDVA consolidated and became what is known today as Veterans Affairs (VA). Many of the original buildings were very large and almost fortress-like. They were intended to house as many Veterans as possible, but lacked the personal and intimate care that many of these men and women needed. Common to many mental disorders, there are countless theories discussing the most effective means of treatment. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center For PTSD, the two main types of treatment are psychotherapy and medication. In some cases, the two can be used in tandem. Examples of psychotherapy treatment include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. But many psychiatrists and psychologists turn to alternate treatments such as music therapy, acupuncture, animal therapy and art therapy. A 2010 study by Cheryl Miller finds that art therapy is an extremely effective means to alleviate PTSD symptoms in many Veterans. “Through art, participants were able to express positive feelings, externalize difficult emotions and gain insight into their PTSD symptoms,” Miller said. “Art making fostered discussion and allowed veterans to show empathy for one another.” The Milwaukee VA currently provides minimal opportunities to focus on these alternate types of treatment, and therefore the implementation of such a specialized facility will be a necessary asset to the current programs offered. The search for an appropriate project site for this thesis began and ended at the Milwaukee Veteran’s Affairs campus.
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introduction
The origin of the Milwaukee VA Hospital dates back to 1867, when work on the Main Building began. “Old Main” as this is now referred to, is one of the many historic structures still in existence on site. Over 24 historic buildings make up the campus; each one carefully located within the Picturesquestyled landscape and recently designated a National Historic Landmark by the Department of Interior. Many of these have been renovated throughout the years and are in use as various administration and domiciliary buildings; others have been boarded up, awaiting their fate. Unfortunately some of the original buildings on the Milwaukee VA campus have been torn down, others have remained and in use, but there are still some that sit vacant. Too often these kinds of buildings have been forgotten and left for degradation. Although there are preservation efforts that surround many of the existing structures, other circumstances impede the progress of restoration. The purpose of this study is to bring historical architecture and veterans from all wars together in order to bring new life to one another. There are three primary areas of focus which include the site and historic building selection, the new re-purposing of the building, and the restorative strategies to drive the design proposal. The chapel building sits silently atop a modest hill within the northern half of the campus. It is completely clad with white-washed clapboards in the Queen Anne style and upon approach, acts as a gateway to the white headstones of the Wood National Cemetery beyond. Its vacancy adds to the solitude and peace that surrounds such an ethereal area.
SSgt James I. Bokelman, US Army, WWII 1942-1945
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It became clear that the spiritual and meditative quality of this place and its adjacency to the cemetery would provide an appropriate location for this project site. Construction was completed in 1889, making it one of the oldest buildings on the VA campus. Originally it served both Catholic and Protestant services, but has been closed since 1996 and all religious services are now held in the Main Hospital chapel. This study will investigate the proposed use and addition to the chapel. Renovating the existing structure for re-purposing and exploring how an addition will relate to the chapel in form and function will serve as a major consideration throughout the project. Upon preliminary programming, the current chapel is approximately 4,700 square feet, with additional square footage added for housing and other operations required. It is important that the size of the facility to feel as comfortable and intimate as possible while considering the amenities and resources required for optimal healing and recovery. Because the entire VA Hospital campus has been awarded National Landmark Status, the entire landscape is equally as significant as the buildings. Extensive site analysis will be important to complete to ensure that the addition will be minimally invasive. Conversely, there have been numerous studies completed which research the effects of art therapy and healing gardens. Instead of focusing solely on the architecture of the historic building and the new addition, there will also be a third component to incorporate natural gardens.
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introduction
Visual connection between the interior of the building and the natural setting outside is a main goal so that residents can enjoy the gardens year-round. Because the chapel is adjacent to the cemetery, it will be important also to not impede that connection as well. Facing the realities of PTSD recovery does not mean ignoring or masking the trauma experienced. Rather most psychiatrists will agree that accepting these painful experiences is part of the process. The cemetery can be an important literal and symbolic place. Through my experience, the most somber yet strengthening times are when veterans stand together for ceremonial events. Retiring American flags, presenting the colors, small town parades, or dedicating a new veterans memorial are all examples. Though designing for the visual sense can be the primary focus, I will also consider all 5 senses in design. Most people react negatively or positively to things they can see, hear, smell, taste, or touch. In order to create spaces that will nurture encouragement and rejuvenation, one must consider all aspects of the user’s experiences. Design for optimal natural light within the building is one design strategy that will play a large role in this design study as well. Prior to the use of electricity to light to buildings, it was common for many architects to design their buildings to be thin in order to welcome optimal amounts of natural light. This is true for the design of the Milwaukee VA Chapel as well. This strategy allows natural daylight to penetrate through each space. Natural light also plays a large role to accomplish angelic atmosphere desired of most worship spaces. Although the VA chapel is a modest building, it still retains a large part of these qualities.
James I. Bokelman (L) and James R. Bokelman (R) home on leave after boot camp
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It is important to recognize these characteristics in the existing building as well as utilize them for the new addition. Minimizing glare and direct sunlight is essential for ideal comfort as well as for intelligent energy use. Through this research, I have formulated five design strategies that will guide the design process: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Thin building to be fully day lit Maximize all views to the natural surroundings Respect surrounding site and views to shape the addition Incorporate healing gardens Design for all 5 senses
Through these points, I will propose that there are inherent qualities of historic architecture and opportunities within new architecture to create a place to honor veterans and give them a place that will help to heal wounds and accept the scars of war.
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introduction
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site selection
White Light My addiction is my affliction It’s mine and mine alone Not yours to control only I can say no No more, no way, not today You understand and maybe you don’t My addiction is my affliction My journey now is to find my way to the next day Not to dwell on past days and the hurt I left behind Clarity takes time and this I know my addiction gets in the way People ask why you are this way They are friends and family But beg your pardon My addiction is my affliction And my burden to carry The white light at the end of Of the path is where I travel I pray it is a place called serenity Where my inner peace can be found I found others on this journey They struggle with their own Addiction as I do mine My addiction is my affliction Be it alcohol, drugs, gambling, Eating or some other form. Society looks at me as if I Have a disease, so please don’t pity me But don’t disregard me as a human. My addiction does not define me I am what I am because I am. James Heavy Hackbarth
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Milwaukee VA Medical Center The National Soldiers Home Historic District, in Milwaukee, is the birthplace of federal veteran care in America and is a soldiers’ recuperation and living settlement established just after the Civil War. This 90+ acre district rests on the grounds of the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee between what is now National Avenue and Bluemound Roads, directly west of Miller Park. The National Asylum for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers, as it was originally named, was established in 1865. The establishment of a system of National Soldiers Homes, including Milwaukee, was one of the last pieces of legislation signed by President Lincoln before his assassination.
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site selection
I-94
Miller Park
CHAPEL
Zablocki VA Medical Hospital National Avenue 19
Old Main Soldier’s Home The focus of this thesis is with the chapel, highlighted here in yellow. However, this proposal is only the first step in restoring and re-using many of the historic buildings on the VA campus. One of the most iconic buildings on the site is Building 2, often referred to as “Old Main�. The Gothic style building was built in 1869 and served as the original hospital to wounded soldiers from the Civil War.
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site selection
Building 2 “Old Main” Soldier’s Home 1869
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Ward Memorial Theatre The Ward Memorial Hall is another significant historic building as Wisconsin’s oldest theatre. It was designed by Henry C. Koch, the same architect who designed the Milwaukee City Hall.
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site selection
Building 41 Ward Theatre 1881
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Future site of the Chapel Old Main Historic VA campus map Circa 1876
Historic Map Analysis These maps show the site’s evolution over time. It is important to recognize how the buildings and roads were placed on the site. Opposite of a militaristic or grid-like approach, the buildings and roads were designed in a more organic way, creating dramatic views as you move through the winding paths, hills and valleys.
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site selection
Future site of the Chapel Ward Theatre Old Main Historic VA campus map Circa 1917
Future site of the Chapel Ward Theatre Old Main Historic VA campus map Circa 1958
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Building of Focus
Chapel Building #12 Built - 1889 Closed since 1996 7,000 gross square feet Architect - Henry Koch Style - Queen Anne Construction - Wood column + beam
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site selection
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historic preservation
Field of Stone Here I lie down in a field of stone In a place where I now call home A place where the white Crosses grow row upon row The grass is so green and the crosses so white They gleam and shimmer in the sunlight When the night falls they glow in the moonlight This I know as I lie down in my new home A place I call a Field of Stone Brothers who have gone before now lie beside me Different dates Different wars Etched in White marble stone WW1, WW11, Korea, Vietnam, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan We each have a different row in a place where the crosses grow My time has come to join my Brothers here in this place The flag is folded and placed In the hands of my family The 21 gun salute to another fallen warrior rings Out over the field of stone. The bugler plays the soulful taps So lay me down in a place where the crosses grow Row upon row in a Field of Stone a place where I Now call home James Heavy Hackbarth
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Existing Exterior Conditions These images show the chapel as it stands today. The photo on the left was taken February 2012, and since the start of my research, a large permanent black fence has been constructed around the perimeter of the building. This can be seen in the photo in the middle which was taken October 2012. According to the “Save The Soldier’s Home” website, the fence has been constructed to further protect this building against vandalism and to help stage for future improvements. Similar fencing has also since been placed around Old Main and the Ward Theatre. Such reported improvements include: • Repairs to the roofs of Building 2 (Old Main) and Building 41 (Ward Memorial Hall) should begin no later than the end of September or early October. • Preparation for construction of two to four new assisted living facilities – Greenhouse TM buildings – should begin in July. • Drain tile was installed around the basement of Building 4 (Recreation Building) to prevent water infiltration. • A non-historic smokestack will be demolished. • Interior-only changes to Building 102 (Laundry) will be made to accommodate a change from laundry use to sanitizing instruments for the VA hospital.
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historic preservation
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Existing Interior Conditions These images show the existing conditions of the interior of the chapel. They are courtesy of The Kubala Washatko Architects and were taken in 2006. It is clear that there are many areas of the exterior and interior which have been damaged due to lack of maintenance. The crumbling plaster can be seen in the middle image and water damage is clear in the image on the far right. It is also important to note that there are a number of ‘improvements’ to the building which are not original and will be looked at closely when determining the restoration strategy. For instance, the red carpet is not original and neither is the acoustical ceiling tile. These are easy examples of items not to be restored, but there can be debate regarding other aspects of the building which will be laid out in forthcoming pages.
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site selection
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Picturesque Landscape Having National Historic Landmark designation means that the grounds, as well as the buildings, have historic significance. This was another aspect to consider when proposing an addition to the chapel. The placement of the new building must be situated in a way that respects the surrounding landscape. Evolved predominantly from mid-18th century British landscape design theory, this style sought to evoke “natural� landscape appearance of rougher terrain and dramatic asymmetric composition in contrast to the axial geometry of earlier Renaissance and Baroque landscapes, such as the French Palace of Versailles.
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site selection
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Picturesque Landscape This image is the portion of the Wood National Cemetery that the chapel currently faces to the West of the building. The contemplative nature of the grounds, specifically the cemetery, plays a prominent role in the design of the new addition.
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site selection
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Picturesque Landscape Additional images of the VA grounds and landscape.
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site selection
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Preservation Strategy: PERIOD OF SIGNIFICANCE There are a number of theories to consider when approaching the subject of historic preservation. Generally, one of the most widely accepted practice is known as the Period of Significance. This refers to the time of the building’s conception, being the date of construction to the last date that something significant happened to or at the building such as a natural disaster, fire, sale of the building, significant alterations, etc. All historically designated buildings must abide by the National Park Service Preservation Guidelines if seeking tax credits for restoration efforts. The proposal will provide the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) with a framework to determine if the project meets these standards. According to the Historic Assessment provided by the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers (NHDVS), the period of significance for the chapel is between 1898 - 1920’s.
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site selection
Image circa 1889
Image circa 1920’s
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Original Shingle Style Fleche - Replaced Shortly After Construction
Metal Roof Ridge and Hip Rolls Translucent Leaded Diamond-Pane Windows Painted Clapboards and Trim Natural Cedar Shingles
Preservation Strategy: PERIOD OF SIGNIFICANCE 1889 - 1920’s 42
site selection
Image circa 1889
Nine Simple Fixed Shingle Style Windows - West Elevation / Chancel West Vestry Addition (to be confirmed) Image circa 1960’s
Painted Stencil Wall Finish Chapel Electrified and Fitted with New Electroliers Arch Braced Hammer Beam Trusses with Button Caps Altar (west) Figurative Art Glass Windows Chamfered Wood Columns Distemper Paint Finishes on Lime Plaster Tongue and Groove Wainscot Cast Iron Communion Rail Image circa 1914
Tongue and Groove Wood Flooring
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Modifications past the Period of Significance Wall shingles replaced with Pine South wood porch decking replaced with concrete slab Opalescent art glass windows (likely 1931) Figurative stained glass window, south vestry Communion rail replaced Reredos at west wall window Chancel arch-cove White pine enclosures at column bases Ornamental plaster added to wood columns White pine wainscot Faux stone sanctuary wall finish Stations of the Cross
1930’s
South tower wood porch replaced with concrete / pipe rail VAT flooring Acoustic ceiling tile
1940’s - 1950’s
Plastic storm windows / aluminum ventilators / frames added South toilet room enlarged Asphalt roof - 2nd layer Boiler installed
1980’s - 1990’s
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site selection
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Preservation Guidelines United States Department Of The Interior > National Park Service > National Register of Historic Places • • • • • • • •
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Do not radically change, damage or destroy characterdefining features of existing building All new functions should be placed in existing building before constructing a new addition Any new construction so that there is the least possible loss of historic materials Clearly differentiate new construction from historic building Limit the size and scale of new addition in relationship to historic building Rooftop additions should be set back and as inconspicuous as possible when viewed from the street New use can be met by altering non-character-defining interior spaces New additions should be designed so that they may be removed in the future with minimal damage
site selection
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precedent study
Red So simple to say such a small word Only three letters the color red So why do I have so Much trouble with That color, a simple Small one no less red Sometimes I sit in a swirl of red Circling in and around my head You can’t smell red You can taste red Sweet sticky and warm You can see red You can feel red angry red You can feel sad red I try to keep that one in my head So many days commemorate red Red letter day, what’s that May Day communist celebrate that day Valentine’s Day so much red it spins in my head Christmas is all about the reds but the white snow Calms my soul Life’s color is red, your life source Your blood is red you see it Spinning in my head the color red
Blood on my hands and it won’t wash away Not today nor any other day Today is like most wash away wash away Still spinning in my head That simple little color red I have red days to many to count Red tracers piercing the sky and flesh Red raining from the sky The blades cutting the wind The blood swirling around in the air And in my head Bring them home Bring them home To late today was their red day Their day to die I need to stop or I might cry. James Heavy Hackbarth
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Precedent Study 1 CENTER FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES Location - Camino Del Abejar, Zaragoza (Spain) Architect - Jose Javier Gallardo Ortega - G.Bang Architects Site - Rural Year Built - 2011 Gross SF - 10,844 Structural System - C.Block Bearing Walls, Steel Beams Cladding - Red Zinc Standing Seam Metal Panels
PROGRAM ANALYSIS Single Rooms 2045 SF Double Rooms 2550 SF Common Living Room 894 SF Common Dining Room 532 SF Laundry 147 SF Storage 489 SF Restrooms 330 SF Office + Reception 745 SF Entry + Lobby 636 SF
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precedent study
BUILDING SECTION
PLAN
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Precedent Study 2 CENTRO MEDICO ABC CENTRO DE CANCER Location - Mexico City, Mexico Architect - HKS Architects Site - Urban Year Built - 2009 Gross SF - 65,000 SF Structural System - CIP Concrete Columns + Beams Cladding - Aluminum + Glass Curtain
PROGRAM ANALYSIS Circulation 3272 SF Building Services 1968 SF Administration + Public 13,380 SF Diagnostic Treatment 15,228 SF Lease 11,436 SF
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precedent study
PLAN
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Precedent Study 3 ST. JOHN’S REHABILITATION CENTER Location - Toronto, Ontario (Canada) Architect - Montgomery + Sisam Architects Farrow Partnership Architects Site - Urban Year Built - 2011 Gross SF - 48,300 SF Structural System - Precast Concrete Column + Beam Cladding - Aluminum + Glass Curtain Wall System, Metal Panel, Brick
PROGRAM ANALYSIS Gym (3) 8324 SF Multi-Purpose Room 1385 SF Patient Care Units 3098 SF Therapy Pool 2674 SF Reception 435 SF Entry + Lobby 3376 SF Gift Shop 1156 SF Restroom 383 SF Locker Room 533 SF
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precedent study
PLAN
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Precedent Study 4 PRIVATE RESIDENCE Location - Australia Architect - Williams Boag Architects Pty Ltd Site - Urban Year Built - 2009 Gross SF - 5,877 SF Structural System - Steel post + beam Cladding - Copper and glass curtain wall
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precedent study
PLAN
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Precedent Study MATERIALS Wood construction and wood cladding for the new addition was selected primarily for its restorative qualities and obvious connection to nature. Its calming warmth and potential for elegance is exactly what is envisioned for the new addition. These images are various examples of this type of wood architecture. RIDGE HOUSE - BOHLIN CYWINSKI JACKSON ARCHITECTS
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precedent study
CREEKSIDE HOUSE - BOHLIN CYWINSKI JACKSON ARCHITECTS
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design proposal
Did You Song Did you, did you, did you Kill somebody did you kill somebody I want to know, I want to know Did you, did you, kill somebody Did you shoot them in the head? Did you shoot them dead? Did you kill somebody? Did you kill somebody? Were they young or old? Young or old Women or a child or an old man Did you, did you, kill somebody I want to know Because I didn’t go Didn’t go to that place I did not go Can you tell me? Can you tell me? Did you, did you Kill somebody, kill somebody Tell me it ain’t so Tell me it ain’t so You didn’t kill somebody You didn’t kill somebody You didn’t kill women Or a child like they said You didn’t shoot them dead I didn’t go I didn’t go So how would I know? So how would I know? Unless you tell me it ain’t so Unless you tell me it ain’t so God am glad I didn’t go James Heavy Hackbarth September 9th 2010
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PROGRAM SUMMARY
PROGRAM SUMMARY NAME
COMMUNITY
Building Program + A Pattern Language Based on the precedent study and analysis of the existing chapel, a program was created to serve as a guide through the space planning phase. Because the existing site left minimal constraints, it became important to embrace another set of guidelines to base the design of the new addition. This set of rules was set forth with the introduction of Pattern Language. A series of patterns discussed in the book were extracted and can be seen in the following pages. The selected patterns are as follows: • • • • • •
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Creating Zen Views Defining Public versus Private Spaces Creating a Tapestry of Light and Dark Providing a Room of One’s Own Designing for a South Facing Facade Creating a Hierarchy of Open Spaces
design proposal
PRIVATE
SERVICE SUPPORT
QUANTITY
NET SQ. FT.
Lobby
1
950
950
Community / Corridor
1
3840
3840
Kitchen
1
430
430
Dining Room
1
COMBINED
N/A
Public Restroom
1
55
55
Administration Offices
2
1750
3500
Gardens
1
EXTERIOR
N/A
Reading / Library
2
190
380
Workshop / Group
1
450
450
Computer Lab
1
320
320
Art Studio
1
3190
3190
Gallery
1
2500
2500
Single Rooms
11
396
4356
Laundry
1
420
420
Resident Storage
10
80
800
Mechanical Room
1
906
906
TOTAL NET SQ.FT.
TOTAL NET SQ. FT.
22097
NET TO GROSS MULTIPLIER
1.3
TOTAL GROSS
28726.1 4500 SF (net) 960 SF (net) 11,988 SF (net)
Existing Chapel Addition Mezzanine @ Chapel Addition
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Site Plan The existing chapel retains much of its historical integrity, with a simple one story glass connection attached to the north transept. The chapel consists of the art therapy portion of the program, including individual and group studios, counseling rooms, computer room, library and a new 2nd level mezzanine. The two story addition consists of the housing portion of the project. There are a total of 11 individual units and a common gathering room. The implied connection to an existing house to the west of the new addition would serve administrative functions for this and other facilities on the VA campus. The courtyard created by the new addition would introduce an opportunity for a healing garden. Its series of wooden pathways leads to multiple destinations such as a newly designed memorial, a reflecting pool and the Wood National Cemetery.
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design proposal
0
100’
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Basement Plan The Basement sits under the two story housing portion of the new addition only. The following spaces are located here: • Mechanical Room • Laundry Facilities • Individual Storage Units • Fire Stairs
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design proposal
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30’
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First Floor Plan A more aggressive approach to the interior of the church is seen here with the introduction of a 2nd level mezzanine. Openings are created in some of the non load bearing walls in the apse. The mezzanine is centrally located, retaining the strong symmetry of the original design. It also fits between the main columns in the nave, as not to damage any of the existing structure. Slight modification of the altar steps would be required to provide ADA accessibility. The glass connection serves as a gathering and gallery space. A series of movable walls line the walkway, complemented by tables and chairs to look over the healing garden. This glass connection extends into the housing portion, terminating at the grand staircase. In the long housing portion of the addition, the corridor is designed with thickened walls, creating individual niches for more private views of the outdoors. A generous lobby space provides another waiting area, resident mailboxes and public restrooms. Each residential unit acts as a studio apartment, consisting of a full kitchen, closet, living area and full bathroom. All areas are ADA accessible. The common room on the west end of the building encourages a place for more interaction between the residents. It provides a lounge space, pool table, full kitchen with ample seating.
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design proposal
0
50’
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Second Floor Plan Here the chapel’s new second level mezzanine can be seen. It provides the same layout as the first floor plan below it. The second level of the housing portion is almost identical to the first level. There is an additional unit which sits above the lobby area. All units here have a balcony overlooking the serene grounds of the VA campus.
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design proposal
0
50’
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Pattern Language Diagram ZEN VIEWS This diagram indicates how Zen views to the healing garden and surrounding grounds are designed.
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Pattern Language Diagram PUBLIC VERSUS PRIVATE This diagram indicates the passage of public to private spaces. The thicker line work represents more public spaces.
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Pattern Language Diagram TAPESTRY OF LIGHT AND DARK This diagram shows how a shadow pattern is created in the corridor. This concept minimizes the institutional feel of the hallway.
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Pattern Language Diagram ROOM OF ONE’S OWN This diagram is a simple representation of how the proposal provides individual units that each resident can call their own.
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design proposal
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Pattern Language Diagram SOUTH FACING FACADE This diagram shows how the two story addition is positioned on the site to take advantage of the southern sun, optimal for the healing gardens and main entrance.
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Pattern Language Diagram HIERARCHY OF OPEN SPACES This diagram shows the different zones that are created by the new addition. Overlapping areas are considered to have greater importance, revealing significant spaces.
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South Elevation The south elevation shows a number of aspects to point out. The 10� wood plank cladding changes to 4� plank at the same horizontal datum as the existing chapel. Wood frame windows are the same proportion as those seen on the chapel. They are arranged in a similar 1-2-3 pattern. Also seen here by the shadow line is how the second level is pushed out and serves as a slight overhang, providing sunshading for the first level.
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design proposal
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North Elevation The north elevation shows the balcony that extends across the facade. It also shows how the glass connection terminates at the grand staircase.
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East Elevation The east elevation shows how the one story glass connection interacts with the existing chapel. It also shows how the shed roof figuratively ‘bows’ to the chapel as well as providing designed sun-shading.
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10” IPE WOOD CLADDING 2” VERTICAL FURRING STRIPS 2” PRESSURE EQUALIZED CAVITY 1/2” PLYWOOD TAR PAPER 3” RIGID INSULATION 2”x6” WOOD STUD @ 16” O.C.
2”x6” T+G WOOD PLANK
2”x6” SILL PLATE 2”x10” T+G WOOD FLOOR 6” CONCRETE FLOOR SLAB ANCHOR BOLT 11” C.I.P. CONCRETE WALL
8'-0"
PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT
6” BATT INSULATION AIR, WATER, VAPOR BARRIER
8” RIGID INSULATION
8” CONCRETE FLOOR
Wall Detail + Longitudinal Section Structural System - Wood Stick Construction • 2x6 bearing walls, wood gang nail truss system • Metal standing seam roof Glass Curtain Wall System - Wood Beam and Column Cladding - Wood Rain screen Wall System
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design proposal
1/2” COMPRESSIVE STRIP 8” RIGID INSULATION CONCRETE FOOTING DRAIN PIPE GRAVEL
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Birdseye Perspective Looking west
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Exterior Garden Perspective Looking east
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Interior Corridor Perspective Looking east
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Interior Unit Perspective Looking north
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Interior Chapel Perspective - First Floor Looking southeast
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Interior Chapel Perspective - Mezzanine Level Looking west
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Step One - Conclusion Providing a way to re-use buildings that already exist and are inherently priceless seems like an obvious movement, especially when it provides a way to help our nation’s veterans. Unfortunately it’s not always an easy answer. There have been years of discussion with all of the buildings mentioned here. Implementing this proposal would provide a respectful solution to the chapel and surrounding grounds as well as answering the need for additional veterans housing. It is a way to use architecture to answer the needs of many who are seeking a way to begin healing the wounds of war. These men, much like my father, grandfather, uncle and friends feel lost at times. Providing a specialized art therapy facility can begin to give them a clear path.
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STEP TWO
STEP THREE
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Anderson, Brock Justin, “An Exploration of the Potential Benefits of Healing Gardens on Veterans with PTSD” (2011). All Gradu ate Reports and Creative Projects. Paper 50. Aripin, S. ‘Healing Architecture’: Daylight In Hospital Design. Issue brief. Brisbane: School Geography, Planning, Architecture - University of Queensland, 2007. Print.. Aycock, Nancy. “Art & Light.” Art & Light. World Press, 11 Jan. 2011. Web. 2 May 2012. <http://artandlight.wordpress. com/2011/01/11/depression-pain-ptsd/>. Curry, Bob, Kristy Bokelman, James Madlom, and Frank Butterfield. “Soldier’s Home Historic District Community Advisory Council.” Soldier’s Home Preservation Status. Veterans Manor, Milwaukee. 14 Mar. 2012. Presentation. Figley, Charles R., and William P. Nash. Combat Stress Injury: Theory, Research, and Management. New York: Routledge, 2007. Print. Gesler, Wilbert M. Healing Places. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2003. Print. Haight, Michael. “Psychology of PTSD at the Milwaukee VA.” Telephone interview. 14 Feb. 2012. Marberry, Sara O. Improving Health care with Better Building Design. Chicago, IL: Health Administration, 2006. Print. Miller, Cheryl. “Art Therapy Alleviates PTSD Symptoms In Veterans.” Thesis. Concordia University, 2010. Print. Seahorn, Janet J., and E. Anthony. Seahorn. Tears of a Warrior: A Family’s Story of Combat and Living with PTSD. Fort Collins, CO: Team Pursuits, 2008. Print. Sternberg, Esther M. Healing Spaces: The Science of Place and Well-being. Cambridge, MA: Belknap of Harvard UP, 2009. Print. “Treatment.” National Center for PTSD. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 07 July 2009. Web. 03 Mar. 2012. <http://www. ptsd.va.gov/public/pages/gen-treatment.asp>. Wagenaar, Cor. The Architecture of Hospitals. Rotterdam: NAI, 2006. Print. Williams, Tom. Post-traumatic Stress Disorders of the Vietnam Veteran: Observations and Recommendations for the Psycholog ical Treatment of the Veteran and His Family. Cincinnati, Ohio (P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati 45214): Disabled American Veterans, 1980. Print. United States. National Parks Service. Department of the Interior. Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings. By W. Brown Morton III and Gary L. Hume. Washington D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1990. Print.
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Special THANK YOU to The Kubala Washatko Architects for sharing research, images and data from the chapel. Thank you also to Jim Hackbarth for the use of your humbling poetry. Finally, THANK YOU to all our veterans. Your sacrifice and service silences my soul.
ADAGIO FOR HEALING Master of Architecture Graduate Thesis Kristy Lynn Bokelman December 2012 University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee School of Architecture and Urban Planning Committee Members - Professor James W. Shields (chair) - Professor Matt Jarosz - Justin Racinowski (TKWA)
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