This new educational, administrative, and clinical facility for the Western Carolina University Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) provides education, information, technology, research, training, and services to improve health outcomes in Western North Carolina. The 2 campus buildings total 90,000 SF and are oriented to take advantage of the site’s topography. A third building is planned for future expansion.

The North Carolina Center for Health and Aging (NCCHA) building is approximately 50,000 SF and houses large classroom spaces, a library, and a student café area. The second floor contains administrative offices and a 40,000 SF Ob/Gyn clinic. A monumental stair in the double-height lobby connects the 2 levels. Exam rooms and doctor’s offices are located at the perimeter of each floor, with procedure rooms and support areas in the central core of the building.

Laminated wood entry pavilions define the exterior, recalling elements of mountain area timber design. Sloping stone and masonry piers provide accents and relief to the building elevations.

PHOTOGRAPHER: Kevin Meechan