Department of VA Medical Center

VDLA served as the landscape architecture subconsultant to project architect Ravatt Albrecht & Associates for this design-build facility for the Veterans Administration. The facility provides a temporary home for the Western Blind Rehabilitation Center, accommodating full program components while its Palo Alto location undergoes renovation. VDLA’s scope of work included the development of construction plans, irrigation plans, planting plans, technical specifications, and cost estimates. The site is distinguished by several mature trees, including oaks, redwoods, and magnolias, which contribute to its unique character. The landscape design prioritized the preservation of these trees, ensuring their continued health while also maintaining and renovating existing turf areas. As a result, the temporary facility benefits from an established landscape that supports recreational activities for its occupants. Key program elements incorporated into the design include a golf putting green and practice hitting cage with synthetic turf, a horseshoe pit, and raised garden box planters. Additionally, drought-tolerant ornamental plants enhance the building’s entrances, while informal groupings of low-water-use plant materials provide natural infill in graded areas.