Memphis Mental Health Institute

Setting Milestones in Behavioral Healthcare

The Memphis Mental Health Institute hospital was built to update the infrastructure for progressive techniques, new technologies, and shorter treatment periods. The facility features patient units, a treatment mall, a group learning center, an exterior courtyard, administrative offices, and other necessary spaces. Inspired by the facility operations, patient units were designed in a T-shape to allow nursing staff complete visibility of all patient wings at all times. Patient safety was a key factor in the design, and the building includes features such as double-acting patient room doors to prevent patients from barricading themselves within their rooms. This project marked a milestone in the medical community and was the first major new construction in the planned redevelopment of the Memphis medical district. It was also the first construction manager-at-risk project for the State of Tennessee and was awarded the 2009 Associated General Contractors' Tennessee Platinum Project Award.