Insight Markets: Public Safety

Making the Case for Wellness Rooms in First Responder Design

A person practices stretching or yoga in a softly lit, modern room with unique wall fixtures, creating a calming atmosphere.

It’s not a new concept that our environment has a direct link to our emotions and how we feel. But can a building be designed to actually support and improve the mental wellbeing of its occupants? The 21st century has added new challenges to first responders, particularly those working in policing and law enforcement. Police […]

Creating Spaces for Neurodiverse Students

A meeting room features a large screen displaying diagrams. One speaker points at the presentation while others are engaged at their laptops.

This article originally appeared in the July/August 2024 School Business Affairs magazine issue. Strategies for changing the school’s physical environment to benefit special-needs students Students have returned to the classroom after the pandemic, but the impact of COVID-19 on their learning is still evident. Students’ anxiety and depression are reported to be much higher than […]

Uplifting Wellness Design for Cook County’s “First” First Responders

Video freeze frame showing Cook County, IL Sheriff's Department Telecommunicator Supervisor Leanna Carlson speaking.

Emergency dispatchers aren't physically present at the scene of an accident or crime, but handling difficult 911 calls can create stress and trauma. These "first" first responders may find their important work negatively affects their mental health, work and personal lives. Creating opportunities for mindfulness, relaxation and rejuvenation at work is crucial to combating the […]

National Police Week: Sheriff’s Office Quiet Room Featured by Thomson Reuters Institute

A person sits in a cozy room with soft lighting, wearing headphones, as a nature-themed artwork adorns the wall behind them.

Sensory environment designed by FGMA implements research-based solutions to reduce stress and boost mental health Police administration officials are looking for opportunities to address employee retention and resilience in the face of extreme stress, and 911 dispatchers, often called the “first” first responders, are at the center of it all. In honor of National Police […]

Celebrating Two Special Volunteer Firefighters on the Public Safety Team

Three firefighters stand together in front of a fire truck, exchanging a helmet in a moment of celebration and camaraderie.

Architects who also dedicate time to volunteering with local fire departments support the key vision of FGMA: We Build Community FGMA celebrates National Volunteer Month by spotlighting the time dedicated to volunteering throughout the firm. While giving back to the community every day is part of FGMA’s DNA, this April the firm celebrates two very […]