Valerie J. Bok AIA LEED AP BD+C

Valerie has been programming, planning, and designing healthcare projects since joining architecture+ in 1984, and to date has planned over 30 mental health facilities throughout the US. She is a strong advocate of environmental and sustainable design, and believes that many of these goals are synchronous with patient and staff wellness. Valerie has been promoting and incorporating designs utilizing natural light, views and access to nature, good acoustical performance, thermal comfort and control for her entire career. She finds one of the most gratifying aspects of her work on psychiatric facilities has been the ability to help improve the lives of those who are affected by mental illness. She believes that creating normative, safe and beautiful spaces both promotes patient healing, and helps reduce stigma associated with the mentally ill.