Osgood Building, Brattleboro Retreat, Brattleboro, Vt.
Retrofit Team
Architect: Lavallee Brensinger Architects, Manchester, N.H., www.lbpa.com
General contractor: Engleberth Construction Inc., Colchester, Vt., www.engelberth.com
Glazing contractor: Greenfield Glass, Greenfield, Mass., www.greenfieldglass.net
Materials
Facility administrators were concerned the existing double-hung windows weren’t safe, yet they wanted to preserve the facility’s historic look. The solution was 4000i-DT Series windows, which are manufactured with applied muntin grids to mimic double-hung units and convey a residential-like aesthetic. Panning and trim also highlight the historic styling. To ensure patient safety, the windows are “drop tested” for interior human impacts up to 2,000 foot-pounds.
To manage light and glare and minimize maintenance, the psychiatric-grade windows feature integral between-glass blinds. Insulated units optimize thermal performance to control unwanted heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. The windows’ aluminum frames contain 70 percent or greater recycled content.
Glazing systems manufacturer: Wausau Window and Wall Systems, www.wausauwindow.com
Glazing: Viracon, www.viracon.com
Glazing systems finisher: Linetec, www.linetec.com
The Retrofit
Founded in 1834, the facility treats children, adolescents and adults in their recovery from mental illness, psychological trauma and addiction. The center was patterned on the Quaker concept of moral treatment, which includes treating patients with dignity and respect in a caring, family-like environment that incorporates meaningful work, cultural activities, healthy nutrition and daily exercise.
To better serve its patients, the retreat is undergoing broad expansion and renovations across its entire 1,000-acre campus. The upgrades are part of nearly $12 million dollars in improvements slated to take place during the next two years. The remodel of the Osgood Building is among the most recent projects.
“The Brattleboro Retreat’s nearly 200-year-old reputation for high-quality clinical care has always been accompanied by the comforting, uplifting environment of our campus and buildings,” says Gerri Cote, vice president of operations. “These renovations are in keeping with our commitment to preserve the historic beauty of the retreat while also offering the very latest in 21st century care.”
PHOTO: Wausau Window and Wall Systems