Our team, ALT ARCHITECTURE + RESEARCH ASSOCIATES, consists of architects collaborating with patients, medical providers, mental health experts and administrators to create a "environment as a tool" for community building, experiential education and the healing of the mind, body, and spirit. This has been realized in the Cedar Rapids Veteran Memorial Building (2014), The Patriots Casa at Texas A&M (2014)and the master plan of the Green Road Project at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (2016). Recently we were the prime consultant responsible to formulate a team of 4 core consultants and 39 subject matter experts for the Department of Veteran Affairs Healing Environment Design Guideline. This is an unprecedented document effecting the design and construction of all VA Medical Centers and CBOKS (outpatient clinics) and longterm living facilities (2016). The VAHEDG will contribute to the well-being of 9 million Veterans and their families. The seven design principles are applicable to civilian hospitals, community centers, and schools.