CHILDSAFE
A trauma care center for abused children in USA that highlights the restorative power of nature
ChildSafe is a nonprofit that’s dedicated to preventing abuse and helping abused children. So when it set out to build a new facility, it wanted to make sure the space supported parents, counselors, and kids who were navigating complex legal protocols and starting the healing process. The center, designed by San-Antonio-based Overland Partners, has different walkways, entrances, and exits to allow children, perpetrators, and law enforcement to navigate the complex while maintaining security measures. Though environments like this can typically be sterile and strict—there’s a county police precinct in the building—Overland Partners worked to make the space peaceful and welcoming. There is plenty of natural light and space to walk outside—the San Antonio center is one of very few in USA with an outdoor therapy component and even has a healing garden. “Connecting to nature to help with healing was one of the guiding principles of this project, along with safety."