Hamilton-based Spiezle Architectural Group Inc. recently announced the completion of the interior design for Cooper University Health Care’s newly opened Center for LGBTQ+ Health. Located at 17 W. Knight Ave. in Collingswood, this new office, created in conjunction with Cooper Care Alliance, Cooper’s community-based physicians’ group, addresses the unique health care needs of the LGBTQ+ community in South Jersey and beyond.
“Patients who come to this center will know they can come to this safe space where knowledgeable providers will advocate for them and provide the care they need,” S. Ryan Kirker, a physician’s assistant at the center, said. “Many of our patients have gone to providers who don’t have experience dealing with queer-related health issues, so their needs aren’t taken seriously. That leads to health care avoidance and unaddressed health needs. So, when we have a space where patients are seen and their health needs are validated — that’s huge.”
The design work by Spiezle features six exam rooms, a therapy and counseling room, a welcoming staff lounge, provider offices and a central medical assistant station. These thoughtfully designed spaces ensure a warm, inclusive environment where patients feel safe and supported.
Heather Long, senior interior designer of Spiezle, added: “Our goal was to create a space that not only meets the functional needs of patients and providers, but also fosters a sense of belonging and safety. Every design choice was made with the intention of supporting the holistic well-being of the LGBTQ+ community. We are proud to work on community-centered projects like this that increase accessibility while also delivering modern designs.”
The center responds to the critical need for specialized health care services for the LGBTQ+ community, significantly increasing access to care in the region. Offering a full range of primary care services and specialized treatments, the center provides gender-affirming hormone therapy, HIV care (including PrEP), surgical services and mental health services. Specialists include OB/GYNs, breast surgeons, pulmonologists, speech therapists, oral/maxillofacial surgeons, psychologists and ENTs, focusing on the unique needs of transgender patients.
