kristy bokelmandecember 2012 master of architecture graduate thesis

adagio for healingrestoring a forgotten chapel to bring new hope to veterans suffering from ptsd

4 introduction

16 site selection

28 historic preservation

48 precedent study

60 design proposal

104 conclusion

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introduction

master of architecture graduate thesiskristy lynn bokelman

december 2012university of wisconsin - milwaukee

school of architecture and urban planning

adagio for healing

Conversation Day

I went for a walk the other dayDecided I wanted to have a talkI wanted to have a serious conversation

The problem is that I cant talk and walk at the same timeMy brain doesnt work that way

Thinking of what to say takes timeWalking is a destinationNo time for conversation

So I decided to slow downMaybe that would helpMaybe I didnt need to sit downMaybe I didnt need to think as muchJust slow down and talk

I like to walkFunny, it helpsClears my mindEspecially if you have the timeI decided today would be a good conversation dayIf only I had something serious to say

James Heavy Hackbarth June 27, 2011

6introduction

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.

7VA health care facilities

Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center5000 W. National Avenue

AREA OF FOCUS

State of Wisconsin Veteran Health Care Locations

PTSD treatment centers

8adagio [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 doesnt 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. Soldiers 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.

introduction

Two main types of treatment facilities that exist are called out-patient 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 soldiers 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.

9LCpl 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 Veterans Affairs campus.

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 Picturesque-styled 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.

11SSgt 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.

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 users 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.

13James I. Bokelman (L) and James R. Bokelman (R) home on leave after boot camp

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introduction

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. Thin building to be fully day lit2. Maximize all views to the natural surroundings3. Respect surrounding site and views to shape the addition4. Incorporate healing gardens 5. 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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site selection

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White Light

My addiction is my afflictionIts mine and mine aloneNot yours to control only I can say no

No more, no way, not todayYou understand and maybe you dontMy addiction is my affliction

My journey now is to find my way to the next dayNot to dwell on past days and the hurt I left behindClarity takes time and thisI know my addiction gets in the way

People ask why you are this wayThey are friends and familyBut beg your pardonMy addiction is my afflictionAnd my burden to carry

The white light at the end ofOf the path is where I travelI pray it is a place called serenityWhere my inner peace can be found

I found others on this journeyThey struggle with their ownAddiction as I do mine

My addiction is my afflictionBe it alcohol, drugs, gambling,Eating or some other form.

Society looks at me as if IHave a disease, so please dont pity meBut dont disregard me as a human.My addiction does not define meI 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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Miller Park

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CHAPEL

Zablocki VA Medical HospitalNational Avenue

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site selection

Old Main Soldiers 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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Building 2Old Main Soldiers Home1869

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site selection

Ward Memorial Theatre

The Ward Memorial Hall is another significant historic building as Wisconsins oldest theatre. It was designed by Henry C. Koch, the same architect who designed the Milwaukee City Hall.

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Building 41Ward Theatre1881

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Historic Map Analysis

These maps show the sites 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.

Historic VA campus mapCirca 1876

Old MainFuture site of the Chapel

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Historic VA campus mapCirca 1917

Historic VA campus mapCirca 1958

Old Main Old MainWard Theatre Ward Theatre

Future site of the Chapel Future site of the Chapel

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site selection

Building of Focus

Chapel

Building #12Built - 1889Closed since 19967,000 gross square feetArchitect - Henry KochStyle - Queen AnneConstruction - Wood column + beam

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historic preservation

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Field of Stone

Here I lie down in a field of stoneIn a place where I now call homeA place where the whiteCrosses grow row upon row

The grass is so green and the crosses so whiteThey gleam and shimmer in the sunlightWhen the night falls they glow in the moonlightThis I know as I lie down in my new homeA place I call a Field of Stone

Brothers who have gone before now lie beside meDifferent datesDifferent warsEtched in White marble stoneWW1, WW11, Korea, Vietnam, Kosovo, Iraq and AfghanistanWe each have a different row in a place where the crosses grow

My time has come to join myBrothers here in this placeThe flag is folded and placedIn the hands of my family

The 21 gun salute to another fallen warrior ringsOut over the field of stone.The bugler plays the soulful taps

So lay me down in a place where the crosses growRow upon row in a Field of Stone a place where INow call home

James Heavy Hackbarth

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historic preservation

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 Soldiers 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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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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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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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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Picturesque Landscape

Additional images of the VA grounds and landscape.

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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 buildings 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 - 1920s. Image circa 1889

Image circa 1920s

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Preservation Strategy: PERIOD OF SIGNIFICANCE 1889 - 1920s Image circa 1889

Metal Roof Ridge and Hip Rolls

Original Shingle Style Fleche - Replaced Shortly After Construction

Painted Clapboards and Trim

Translucent Leaded Diamond-Pane Windows

Natural Cedar Shingles

Image circa 1914

Image circa 1960s

West Vestry Addition (to be confirmed)

Nine Simple Fixed Shingle Style Windows - West Elevation / Chancel

Arch Braced Hammer Beam Trusses with Button Caps

Distemper Paint Finishes on Lime Plaster

Chamfered Wood Columns

Cast Iron Communion Rail

Tongue and Groove Wood Flooring

Tongue and Groove Wainscot

Chapel Electrified and Fitted with New Electroliers

Painted Stencil Wall Finish

Altar (west) Figurative Art Glass Windows

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Modifications past the Period of Significance

Wall shingles replaced with PineSouth wood porch decking replaced with concrete slabOpalescent art glass windows (likely 1931)Figurative stained glass window, south vestryCommunion rail replacedReredos at west wall windowChancel arch-coveWhite pine enclosures at column basesOrnamental plaster added to wood columnsWhite pine wainscotFaux stone sanctuary wall finishStations of the Cross

South tower wood porch replaced with concrete / pipe railVAT flooringAcoustic ceiling tile

Plastic storm windows / aluminum ventilators / frames addedSouth toilet room enlargedAsphalt roof - 2nd layerBoiler installed

1930s

1940s - 1950s

1980s - 1990s

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Preservation Guidelines

United States Department Of The Interior > National Park Service > National Register of Historic Places

Do not radically change, damage or destroy character-defining 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

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precedent study

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Red

So simple to say such a small wordOnly three letters the color red

So why do I have soMuch trouble withThat color, a simpleSmall one no less red

Sometimes I sit in a swirl of redCircling in and around my head

You cant smell redYou can taste redSweet sticky and warmYou can see redYou can feel red angry redYou can feel sad redI try to keep that one in my head

So many days commemorate redRed letter day, whats thatMay Day communist celebrate that dayValentines Day so much red it spins in my headChristmas is all about the reds but the white snowCalms my soul

Lifes color is red, your life sourceYour blood is red you see itSpinning in my head the color red

Blood on my hands and it wont wash awayNot today nor any other dayToday is like most wash away wash awayStill spinning in my headThat simple little color red

I have red days to many to countRed tracers piercing the sky and fleshRed raining from the skyThe blades cutting the windThe blood swirling around in the airAnd in my head

Bring them homeBring them homeTo late today was their red dayTheir day to dieI need to stop or I might cry.

James Heavy Hackbarth

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precedent study

Precedent Study 1CENTER FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

Location - Camino Del Abejar, Zaragoza (Spain)Architect - Jose Javier Gallardo Ortega - G.Bang ArchitectsSite - RuralYear Built - 2011Gross SF - 10,844Structural System - C.Block Bearing Walls, Steel BeamsCladding - Red Zinc Standing Seam Metal Panels

PROGRAM ANALYSIS

Single Rooms 2045 SFDouble Rooms 2550 SFCommon Living Room 894 SFCommon Dining Room 532 SFLaundry 147 SFStorage 489 SFRestrooms 330 SFOffice + Reception 745 SFEntry + Lobby 636 SF

BUILDING SECTION

PLAN

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Precedent Study 2CENTRO MEDICO ABC CENTRO DE CANCER

Location - Mexico City, MexicoArchitect - HKS ArchitectsSite - UrbanYear Built - 2009Gross SF - 65,000 SFStructural System - CIP Concrete Columns + BeamsCladding - Aluminum + Glass Curtain

PROGRAM ANALYSIS

Circulation 3272 SFBuilding Services 1968 SFAdministration + Public 13,380 SFDiagnostic Treatment 15,228 SFLease 11,436 SF

PLAN

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precedent study

Precedent Study 3ST. JOHNS REHABILITATION CENTER

Location - Toronto, Ontario (Canada)Architect - Montgomery + Sisam Architects Farrow Partnership ArchitectsSite - UrbanYear Built - 2011Gross SF - 48,300 SFStructural System - Precast Concrete Column + BeamCladding - Aluminum + Glass Curtain Wall System, Metal Panel, Brick

PROGRAM ANALYSIS

Gym (3) 8324 SFMulti-Purpose Room 1385 SFPatient Care Units 3098 SFTherapy Pool 2674 SFReception 435 SFEntry + Lobby 3376 SFGift Shop 1156 SFRestroom 383 SFLocker Room 533 SF

PLAN

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precedent study

Precedent Study 4PRIVATE RESIDENCE

Location - AustraliaArchitect - Williams Boag Architects Pty LtdSite - UrbanYear Built - 2009Gross SF - 5,877 SFStructural System - Steel post + beamCladding - Copper and glass curtain wall

PLAN

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precedent study

Precedent StudyMATERIALS

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

59CREEKSIDE HOUSE - BOHLIN CYWINSKI JACKSON ARCHITECTS

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Did You Song

Did you, did you, did youKill somebody did you kill somebodyI want to know, I want to knowDid you, did you, kill somebodyDid 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 oldWomen or a child or an old manDid you, did you, kill somebodyI want to knowBecause I didnt goDidnt go to that placeI did not goCan you tell me?Can you tell me?Did you, did youKill somebody, kill somebodyTell me it aint soTell me it aint soYou didnt kill somebodyYou didnt kill somebodyYou didnt kill womenOr a child like they saidYou didnt shoot them deadI didnt go I didnt goSo how would I know?So how would I know?Unless you tell me it aint soUnless you tell me it aint soGod am glad I didnt go

James Heavy HackbarthSeptember 9th 2010

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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:

Creating Zen Views Defining Public versus Private Spaces Creating a Tapestry of Light and Dark Providing a Room of Ones Own Designing for a South Facing Facade Creating a Hierarchy of Open Spaces

PROGRAM SUMMARYPROGRAM SUMMARY

NAME QUANTITY NET SQ. FT. TOTAL NET SQ. FT.COMMUNITY Lobby 1 950 950

Community / Corridor 1 3840 3840Kitchen 1 430 430Dining Room 1 COMBINED N/APublic Restroom 1 55 55Administration Offices 2 1750 3500Gardens 1 EXTERIOR N/AReading / Library 2 190 380Workshop / Group 1 450 450Computer Lab 1 320 320Art Studio 1 3190 3190Gallery 1 2500 2500

PRIVATE Single Rooms 11 396 4356

SERVICE SUPPORT Laundry 1 420 420Resident Storage 10 80 800Mechanical Room 1 906 906

TOTAL NET SQ.FT. 22097NET TO GROSS MULTIPLIER 1.3

TOTAL GROSS 28726.1

4500 SF (net) Existing Chapel 960 SF (net) Addition Mezzanine @ Chapel

11,988 SF (net) 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. 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 0 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. 0 50

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Second Floor Plan

Here the chapels 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. 0 50

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Pattern Language DiagramZEN VIEWS

This diagram indicates how Zen views to the healing garden and surrounding grounds are designed.

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Pattern Language DiagramPUBLIC 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 DiagramTAPESTRY 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 DiagramROOM OF ONES 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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Pattern Language DiagramSOUTH 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 DiagramHIERARCHY 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 sun-shading for the first level.

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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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Wall Detail + Longitudinal Section

Structural System - Wood Stick Construction 2x6 bearing walls, wood gang nail truss system Metal standing seam roofGlass Curtain Wall System - Wood Beam and ColumnCladding - Wood Rain screen Wall System

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PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK EDUCATIONAL PRODUCT

10 IPE WOOD CLADDING

2 VERTICAL FURRING STRIPS

2 PRESSURE EQUALIZED CAVITY

TAR PAPER

3 RIGID INSULATION

2x6 WOOD STUD @ 16 O.C.

6 BATT INSULATION

AIR, WATER, VAPOR BARRIER

2x6 T+G WOOD PLANK

2x6 SILL PLATE2x10 T+G WOOD FLOOR

6 CONCRETE FLOOR SLAB

ANCHOR BOLT11 C.I.P. CONCRETE WALL

8 CONCRETE FLOOR

1/2 COMPRESSIVE STRIP

8 RIGID INSULATION

CONCRETE FOOTING

DRAIN PIPE

GRAVEL

8 RIGID INSULATION

1/2 PLYWOOD

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design proposal

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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conclusion

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conclusion

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 nations veterans. Unfortunately its 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 ONE

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. .

Curry, Bob, Kristy Bokelman, James Madlom, and Frank Butterfield. Soldiers Home Historic District Community Advisory Council. Soldiers 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 Familys 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. . 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.

bibliography

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.

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ADAGIO FOR HEALING

Master of Architecture Graduate ThesisKristy Lynn BokelmanDecember 2012University of Wisconsin - MilwaukeeSchool of Architecture and Urban Planning

Committee Members - Professor James W. Shields (chair) - Professor Matt Jarosz - Justin Racinowski (TKWA)