Oct 10, 2025

Today, Friday, October 10, marks World Mental Health Day – a time dedicated to reflecting on the importance of mental well-being and raising awareness about mental health. Marco Group is proud to highlight our contribution to the evolution of mental health care in Newfoundland and Labrador through our involvement in the construction of the Mental Health and Addictions Centre in St. John’s. This state-of-the-art, 240,000 square-foot facility is designed to revolutionize mental health care by enhancing access, improving treatment outcomes, and creating an environment of healing for those in need.

A Fresh Start for Mental Health Care

The new Mental Health and Addictions Centre in St. John’s represents a pivotal shift in how mental health services are delivered in the province. Designed with modern, recovery-focused care at its core, the six-storey facility includes 102 inpatient beds, and a wide range of amenities aimed at supporting holistic healing.

Inpatient services extend beyond clinical care to offer a “therapeutic mall” experience. This thoughtfully designed environment includes physiotherapy, a village square, fitness studio, art therapy program, horticultural suite, and both indoor and outdoor labyrinths for quiet reflection. These amenities promote dignity, normalcy, and community integration – core elements of a recovery-oriented care model.

In addition to the main inpatient facility, the project includes a 60-bed hostel (replacing the Agnes Cowan Hostel), a forensic unit, two adult acute units, a geriatric unit, a short stay unit, and a specialized eating disorder inpatient program. These varied accommodations ensure the Centre can provide care tailored to the specific needs of diverse patient populations.

Outpatient services are also a major focus of the Centre’s design. In line with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s commitment to transforming the delivery of mental health and addictions services, the Centre features inviting, accessible outpatient treatment spaces.

Additionally, the angled form of the inpatient tower has been designed to ensure rich daylighting of the patient spaces. The vast majority of patient and hostel bedrooms will receive direct daylight, and the social spaces such as the lounges, television rooms, and dining rooms have been arranged to receive direct daylight regardless of the floor.

Care Without Barriers

One of the most transformative aspects of this Centre is its ability to deliver integrated care. By combining inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and addiction services under one roof, the Centre eliminates many of the logistical barriers that patients often face. Individuals and families can now receive comprehensive care without the need for transfers between multiple facilities. This seamless integration of services ensures that care is more accessible and responsive to the needs of the community.

The Healing Power of Art

An often-overlooked aspect of healing is the power of art to create emotional and psychological support. The Mental Health and Addictions Centre goes beyond traditional care models by integrating art into its environment. Over 150 pieces of artwork from local Newfoundland and Labrador artists have been thoughtfully curated to create a space that is not only visually appealing but also therapeutic. The art selection ranges from vibrant, optimistic works to more meditative, introspective pieces. This collection of art not only celebrates the province’s rich culture and landscapes but also contributes to the emotional well-being of those who visit, work, and recover within the facility. For a deeper dive into this art initiative, you can read this full article by Business & Arts NL.

Looking Ahead

This Mental Health Day, we reflect on the positive changes we’ve been able to contribute to within the mental health landscape in Newfoundland and Labrador. We are proud of the role we’ve played in the creation of the Mental Health and Addictions Centre, a facility that not only improves access to care but also provides a space for healing, hope, and recovery.

At Marco, we know that building better doesn’t just mean constructing physical spaces; it means building environments that foster wellness, support individuals in need, and provide a brighter future for everyone.

We extend our thanks to the many partners and team members who brought this project to life, including the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, our joint venture partner Cahill and the entire Avalon Healthcare Partnership team. We’re proud to share that the Mental Health and Addictions Centre was completed on time and officially opened to the public on April 13, 2025.