Designing Mental Health Facilities for Veterans: Tomah VA Medical Center
Introduction
CB Design Group served as the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Prime for the architectural design of a cutting-edge VA outpatient mental health facility at the historic Tomah VA Medical Center in Wisconsin
Project Scope, Goals, and VA-Specific Design Challenges
CB Design Group delivered comprehensive architectural and engineering services for the renovation and expansion of Building B404 at the Tomah Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). This project will provide improved access to outpatient mental health care for veterans.
This transformative project addresses critical space and functional deficiencies by introducing purpose-built group therapy areas and updated clinical environments. The design features a 4,560-square-foot multi-story addition and a 38,365-square-foot renovation spanning three floors of the existing facility. The result is a modern, future-ready mental health facility that meets current treatment standards and anticipates evolving care needs.
Respecting the historic character of the Tomah VAMC campus, the renovation harmonizes with existing architecture. The design balances modern healthcare infrastructure with historic preservation, integrating new systems and layouts while preserving architectural integrity.
Key project elements include:
- Collaboration with the State Historic Preservation Office to ensure a sympathetic architectural design
- Compliance with stringent HVAC, life safety, and infection control standards
- Coordination across multiple federal agencies and stakeholders
The completed facility will deliver an advanced healing environment that supports both veteran mental health and the professionals dedicated to their care.
Our Mental Health Design Approach for Tomah VAMC
Our team delivered a state-of-the-art design tailored for federal healthcare environments.
Key architectural solutions included:
- Creation of large group therapy rooms
- Multifunctional office space
- Family visiting areas
- Full teaching kitchen
- Renovation across multiple floors
- Upgrades to:
- Security systems
- HVAC, plumbing, and electrical infrastructure
- Fire protection and telecommunications
- Modular group rooms with collapsible/accordion wall
- All new mechanical (except AHUs), plumbing, wiring, fire alarm, PA and physical security systems
- New exam and consultation rooms, nurse station, staff working and lounge areas, and restrooms
- New elevators throughout, new sidewalks and new lighting
- New entrance with reception, drop-off and canopy
We worked closely with the VA to provide a design that reflects the needs of Veterans and VA healthcare providers and staff.
Project Highlights
- Location: Tomah, WI
- Facility Type: Mental Health / Outpatient Clinic / Historic Building
- Size: 42,925 SF
- Veterans Served: 26,000 veterans/year
- Anticipated Completion Date: 2026 (est)
- Certifications: VA TIL compliance, MHEOCC compliance
Clinical Impact & Veteran Outcomes
✅ Improved delivery of evidence-based outpatient therapy
✅ Designed to support suicide prevention and reintegration programs
✅ Creates a safe, welcoming space for veterans in recovery
Why It Matters
At CB Design Group, we bring the discipline and mission-focus of military service into every VA Healthcare project. This Outpatient Mental Health facility reflects our commitment to excellence, veteran care, and national service—beyond the battlefield.
Work with Veteran-Owned Leader in VA Mental Health Architecture
Looking to renovate or expand a federal healthcare facility?
???? Contact us or explore our project portfolio to see how we design for veteran recovery and resilience.