Aurora Mental Health & Recovery Potomac Pavilion

Designed for healing, resilience, and dignity, the Potomac Pavilion brings critical behavioral health services together in one supportive environment.

The Potomac Pavilion is a new crisis and acute care center for Aurora Mental Health & Recovery (AMHR), providing a centralized destination for behavioral health and recovery services for some of the community’s most vulnerable individuals. Located on AMHR’s comprehensive safety-net campus, the facility brings together walk-in crisis services, a crisis stabilization unit, Connect to Care same-day services, and a detoxification program under one roof, improving access to critical care and support.

Designed with trauma-informed care principles at its core, the building promotes healing through natural light, views of nature, and calming design elements such as plants and artwork. Every aspect of the environment was thoughtfully planned to create a sense of comfort, dignity, and stress reduction for patients, visitors, and staff.

The facility is organized to support both patient care and staff wellbeing. The first floor includes patient intake and consultation areas, administrative offices, and building support spaces. The second floor is dedicated primarily to patient care areas, while the third floor provides staff-focused amenities, including indoor and outdoor respite spaces, private offices, and conference facilities.

Behavioral health facilities require a unique level of care in both design and construction, and the Potomac Pavilion exemplifies that commitment. The project demanded meticulous attention to detail to ensure every space met rigorous safety standards, incorporating specialized features that minimize opportunities for self-harm while maintaining a welcoming and therapeutic environment. The result is a facility that supports recovery, resilience, and long-term wellbeing for both patients and caregivers.

This project received the 2025 CAHED Collaboration & Innovation Award.