The Healing Harbor

Nestled in North Charleston, South Carolina, The Healing Harbor is a medical-dental center designed to serve the U.S. Coast Guard and the surrounding community. Created with resilience in mind, this innovative facility not only provides healthcare services—ranging from primary care and dental treatment to behavioral health and telemedicine—but functions as a welcoming community haven for all.



A central design element is the concept of a “safe harbor,” reflecting the belief that healthcare environments should offer refuge, security, and healing. By elevating the primary occupied floor above ground-level parking, the facility mitigates flood and storm surge risks prevalent in coastal regions. This effective approach safeguards critical healthcare operations and fosters uninterrupted patient care even during severe weather events.



The heart of The Healing Harbor is a transparent atrium that physically and visually connects the building’s multiple levels. Not only does it offer abundant natural light to enhance well-being, but it creates a communal space. This atrium aligns with a central green axis, forming a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape. Outdoor terraces and a courtyard invite patients, staff, and community members to gather, offering a rejuvenating setting that aids in mental and emotional healing.



Strategic use of glass curtain walls and perforated metal screens further refines the interior environment. Daylight filters through in a controlled manner, reducing energy consumption while maintaining comfortable temperatures. Horizontal sunshades along southern exposures reinforce solar control, ensuring a healthier, more cost-effective, and sustainable building operation.



In addition to medical and dental services, The Healing Harbor features a dedicated health education wing. Here, classes and workshops—both in-person and through telemedicine—address preventive care, wellness strategies, and community-driven health initiatives. This approach underscores a commitment to health equity, empowering individuals and families to take charge of their well-being.



Ultimately, The Healing Harbor stands as an emblem of resiliency and innovation. By blending adaptive architecture with patient-centered care, it provides a beacon of hope and a gathering place for all, reflecting the community spirit that characterizes coastal life and the mission of the U.S. Coast Guard.