St. Clair Hospital (Pittsburgh) recently completed a 5,500-square-foot renovation of its existing emergency department to accommodate a dedicated behavioral health crisis unit designed to deliver compassionate, streamlined care.
The journey began with an in-depth concept planning study. Collaborating closely with St. Clair’s clinical team, Hasenstab Architects explored how the behavioral health crisis model could be tailored to meet the operational needs and spatial constraints of the hospital. After evaluating multiple options, the team identified portions of the emergency department and cardiovascular step-down unit as the ideal location for this transformative space.
At the heart of the new unit is a spacious, central treatment area where patients are welcomed into individual recliners rather than traditional hospital beds—a thoughtful detail that promotes comfort and dignity. From the moment patients arrive, they can receive a comprehensive evaluation, begin therapy, and access treatment without delay, ensuring a seamless approach to behavioral health emergencies.
Safety and serenity were guiding principles throughout the design. Open nurse stations and ligature-resistant fixtures safeguard both patients and staff, while abundant natural light and calming finishes create an environment that feels restorative rather than clinical. The result is a space that redefines emergency behavioral health care—combining efficiency, safety, and compassion.
FIRM: Hasenstab Architects, Inc., hasenstabinc.com
DESIGN TEAM: Daniel Herstine, principal in charge; Todd Dunaway, project manager; Bradon Zawicki, project architect; Sarah Connors, design support; Emily Holman, interior design (Hasenstab Architects, Inc.); Barton Associates, Inc. (MEPT Engineering)
COMPLETED: August 2025
