(Washington, D.C., August 18, 2025) 鈥撀� The global integrated design firm 麻花星空mv, in partnership with landscape architecture firm Carvalho and Good and therapeutic and sensory design expert Amy Wagenfeld | Design, has transformed an outdated 1970s-era building into the newly designed and constructed Joy Evans Therapeutic Recreation Center. This progressive new model for wellness-centered public infrastructure incorporates biophilic and neuroinclusive design principles and provides equitable pathways to physical, cognitive, and emotional wellness for people of all ages and abilities. Created with D.C鈥檚 Department of General Services and Department of Parks and Recreation, the 36,800-SF community hub delivers an inclusive, nature-integrated experience for residents of eastern D.C.

Woven into the adjacent community and surrounding landscape, the center maximizes the therapeutic benefits of nature with expansive views of the nearby wooded stream valley and interiors bathed in natural light. The sensory-rich environment includes a natatorium with warm water therapy pool and spa; full-court gymnasium; fitness room; wellness studio; multipurpose room; sensory and play therapy rooms; senior room; therapy clinic; commercial kitchen; and caregiver room. Through community and adaptive sports programming and fitness equipment, individuals of all abilities can experience the transformative benefits of recreation.

Nature as Unifying Design Principle and Primary Amenity

The center鈥檚 biophilic design is rooted in a carefully considered color palette, natural materials, and a progression of spaces that emulate nature鈥檚 gentle transitions 鈥� curved pathways, softened edges, and flowing geometries that support intuitive wayfinding and emotional well-being.

Vertical wood slats along the facade reinforce forest connections and break down the building鈥檚 scale. Two rounded wood columns frame the entrance, reminiscent of towering trees. The reception area is light-filled, spacious, and inviting. A soaring, wood-slatted ceiling and moss wall enhance the acoustic experience upon arrival while warm wood and inlaid stone surfaces provide sensory comfort and encourage tactile engagement. Suspended above a welcome desk, a sculptural installation with iridescent elements creates a grounding focal point to pause and decompress.

Neuroinclusive, Sensory-Responsive, and Community-Centered Design

The design provides neurodivergent individuals with opportunities for both stimulation and calm. Open areas with unimpeded views coexist with more sheltered, intimate areas of refuge.

鈥淭his isn鈥檛 just a building. It鈥檚 a responsive environment where people can discover their own place and pace, depending on the sensory input they seek and what their brains and bodies need,鈥� said Amy Wagenfeld, an occupational therapist and expert in therapeutic space design.

A network of trails replaces a former asphalt perimeter path, guiding visitors from active sports and play areas to quiet community and sensory gardens near the naturalized woodside landscape. This progression from active to contemplative outdoor experiences is designed to give individuals choice in how they use the spaces while providing inclusive access through wide, flat pathways that accommodate bypassing wheelchairs and strollers.

Designed to combat isolation and nurture social health, the center honors older adults and caregivers as vital community members. A welcoming seniors鈥� lounge provides immediate engagement, while a dedicated caregiver room offers support, respite, and connection.

鈥淚f design is to enhance the health and emotional well-being of a community, it must respond to the diverse experiences of individuals,鈥� Davitt said. 鈥淛oy Evans evolves public infrastructure beyond basic function by actively nurturing belonging, fostering joy, and supporting the full spectrum of human needs and experiences.鈥�