“Our project MERGE focuses on empowerment at the root by encouraging identity, connection, and promoting independence. This interior environment assists veterans in developing confidence that eases the transition into civilian life. MERGE encourages overall well-being through the incorporation of biophilic design, decreasing disease transmission, and considering sustainable materials and furnishings. MERGE focuses on the details and considers how the color green gives a sense of tranquility and health throughout. The general apartment facade provides a recessed entry that allows residents to personalize their space and create a sense of identity. Safety is considered throughout MERGE with subtle design decisions; such as floor-to-ceiling glass on the second level balcony, copper details, secured entrances, and non-slip flooring. The location of MERGE in accordance with its surroundings allows residents to commute to various places through different means of transportation autonomously. All of these design decisions follow the concept of empowerment by providing residents with the tools necessary to re-enter civilian life and live without assistance after serving the nation.”
