Design Profile: PATH inc.

According to John Reichert, Director of Shared Services at PATH, the best buildings and landscapes provide an opportunity for artists. “The butterflies in the courtyard help make the arrival less daunting for our clients and their care givers,” he says. “The murals in the lobby are of familiar scenes and provide a warmth not normally associated with institutions of this type.” Along with their team of consultants, Bloomfield and Associates created a facility that respectfully restored a 1950s mid-century modern bank, while building an addition and placing another building on the site. The resulting small campus environment creates a safe haven from the rush and bustle of Cottman Avenue. After several brainstorming sessions, artist Kate Kaman created the kaleidoscope of butterflies. An uplifting and delightful message of warmth, they flutter through the courtyard and in and out of the buildings. Meanwhile, Peter Bloomfield’s murals depict urban scenes that are familiar to the clients of this mental health care facility. They hang in spaces specifically designed for staff and clients to pause and confer.

PROJECT: PATH inc.

LOCATION: Northeast Philadelphia

CLIENT: PATH Inc.

PROJECT SIZE: 85,000 square feet

PROJECT TEAM:

Architects: Bloomfield and Associates

Landscape Architects:Ground Reconsidered

Sculpture: Kate Kamens

Murals: Peter Bloomfield

General Contractor: WS Cumby

Photographer: Individual Artists