Designed to provide the final phase of care for our soldiers, sailors, and airmen before transitioning home, the Transient Wounded Warrior Lodge is part of the larger Wounded Warrior Complex at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. These facilities provide world-class care to our recovering troops and enable them to heal, rehabilitate, and return home.
Working closely with the Wounded Warriors, the Clark Nexsen design team sought to exceed ADA requirements with a design uniquely suited to preparing these residents to return home. With stays of three to six months, the lodge must serve as a home away from home for both the recovering soldiers and their family. Resident suites consist of a common living area, kitchenette, and two bedrooms, each with a private bathroom and small walk-in closet. Veterans may live on their own or with a family member, in either a suite or studio. Each residential floor has shared laundry facilities, full kitchens, and dayrooms.
Indoor-outdoor connectivity was a point of emphasis in the design to support a soothing, healing environment. With interior finishes selected to provide a seamless experience and reflect an outdoor color palette, plentiful windows and glazing provide views to the many outdoor recreation and reflection spaces. A green roof on the four-story wing meets dual goals of environmental sustainability and outdoor “backyard” space, with individual seating areas, a putting green, various game tables, and a covered picnic area. Walking trails and benches provide additional outdoor spaces for quiet reflection.
The Transient Wounded Warrior Lodge and Parking Deck project is designed to LEED Silver, and features solar hot water panels providing 30 percent of the facility’s hot water, as well as photovoltaic panels contributing electrical power back to the lodge.
Selected Awards
ASID VA / IIDA VA-WV Interior Design Excellence Honorable Mention Award, 2018
ACEC Virginia Engineering Excellence Grand Award, 2015
IES Tidewater Section Guth Award for Interior Lighting Design, 2015
Washington Building Congress Craftsmanship Award – Exterior Stone Masonry, 2015