Hattie Larlham — Center for Children with Disabilities

The Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities project is a comprehensive 100,000-square-foot renovation and expansion designed to enhance the safety, comfort, and quality of care provided to residents while improving operational efficiency for staff. Located in Mantua, Ohio, the project includes a 10,000-square-foot addition and 90,000 square feet of renovations within an occupied facility consisting of five residential wings and four support wings.

The addition provides 14 new bedrooms designed to meet modern standards, increase natural light, and alleviate overcrowding. Renovations throughout the facility include upgrades to resident living areas, arts and music therapy spaces, and administrative offices, while expanded parking supports long-term operational needs.

Staff feedback revealed challenges with the initial five-phase plan. Working with the staff, the team revised the approach to maintain continuity of care. Multiple sub-phases, temporary partitions, and managed circulation paths allowed residents and caregivers to remain safe while preserving access to critical services. 

Significant infrastructure improvements include replacement of nine rooftop units, modernization of the Building Automation System (BAS), and upgrades to critical mechanical systems. Detailed shutdown planning and close coordination with facility maintenance staff helped manage aging infrastructure while minimizing disruptions to daily operations. Additional infection-control measures, including hard barriers, negative-pressure construction zones, and rigorous contractor screening protocols, ensured a safe environment for residents, staff, and visitors throughout the project.

The completed facility will provide a modern, therapeutic environment that supports Hattie Larlham’s mission of delivering exceptional care and services for children and adults with disabilities.