Erin Sharp-Newton and Elizabeth Sullivan Present "The Architecture of Mental Health - Behavioral Health Design" to AIA-NJ

NK Architects’ Erin Sharp-Newton and Elizabeth Sullivan — joined by Kimberly McMurray from BHFC Design Consultants and moderator Donna Terzano, a project manager with RWJBarnabas Health and former AIA Central New Jersey president — will present the virtual education event “The Architecture of Mental Health – Behavioral Health Design” on Friday, November 19, 2021, from 12:00-1:00 pm. The session will cover the past, present and future of behavioral health design, from an overview of its history to current challenges and areas of focus, to coming trends and a vision for the future:

  1. HISTORY — Participants will learn about the architectural history of psychiatric facilities.

  2. PRESENT — Participants will gain a better understanding of present-day unique challenges in designing for mental health facilities.

  3. GUIDELINES — Participants will become familiar with patient safety, anti-ligature, and self-harm prevention methods with an overview of guidelines and best practices.

  4. PRINCIPLES — Participants will gain insight into the principles of biophilia, circadian lighting, and nature and how they can support a therapeutic environment.

  5. VISION — Participants will be shown ways to design healing environments while maintaining FGI requirements.

  6. TRENDS — Participants will learn about upcoming trends in this area of design.

Attendance is free, and participants will receive 1 AIA/HSW credit. See AIA-NJ to register.