Charles Drew Benson Clinic

Our team was hired by Charles Drew Health Center, Inc. to develop full design and documentation services for their new clinic in the Benson neighborhood of Omaha. We worked with the client to develop an inclusive design and branding for the space that caters specifically to the younger audience that the clinic hopes to provide critical services to. Programs implemented in the design include six exam rooms, a classroom/community outreach area, a reception and waiting area, lab/specimen, nurse station, break rooms and offices for the staff. We started the interior design process by asking the question, how are we going to create a space that reflects Charles Drew’s mission, accommodates the teenagers and young adult population, and a space that belongs to the Benson neighborhood. We went ahead and looked at the characteristics of each of these entities to find emerging themes and melt them altogether to create a design that is specifically catered for Charles Drew Benson. Through extensive research and findings, we established four interior design goals. The design should support meaningful community connection, while retaining the creativity and historical richness of Benson. The space should feel welcoming and engaging, making people feel safe and respected. The design also should promote a healing environment with connection to nature, and intuitive wayfinding to encourage independence. The revived hardwood flooring and exposed brick is respectful to the context of Benson. The use of wood on the floor and the biophilic design on the graphic walls create a direct tie to nature. The graphic on the accent walls and the playful seating arrangement is welcoming and engaging. Accent walls and brick walls are strategically placed at the area of destination, promoting an intuitive and independent environment. The material palette is youthful, honest and simple, complementing the materials, colors and textures of the existing building. A variety of furniture solutions in the lobby and landing spaces were provided in order to accommodate the needs of staff and patients alike. The furniture in the lobby and consulting room is comfortable and playful with pops of colors to appeal to the younger generation of patients. The expansive storefront allows the graphic walls to be seen from the exterior, showcases Charles Drew’s unique identity, yet creates a great tribute to the historic and artistic vision of the Benson neighborhood.