31 Jan A Space for Healing: Morgan Rae Center for Hope

In October 2024, the Morgan Rae Center for Hope at Manning Family Children’s opened its doors, marking a transformative step in expanding care for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or human trafficking. More than just a building, this thoughtfully designed space is a vital extension of the hospital’s child abuse pediatrics programs, providing Louisiana’s most vulnerable children and their families with a safe, welcoming environment where healing can begin.

The program provides essential services, including medical evaluations, forensic interviews, trauma therapy, and case management—all at no cost to families. In an
article for Biz New Orleans, Emily Wolff, Senior Director of Community Benefits at Children’s Hospital, emphasized the urgent need for such a facility: “In Louisiana, one in ten children will experience physical or sexual abuse before the age of 18.” With the opening of the Morgan Rae Center, Children’s Hospital can now reach more children in need, providing them with the critical care and support they deserve in a space designed to promote healing and restore hope.

Located across from their former building on Calhoun Street, the new Morgan Rae Center seamlessly integrates into the surrounding residential neighborhood. Originally
a craftsman-style cottage, the building underwent a strategic adaptive reuse transformation led by EskewDumezRipple (EDR). The renovation unified the layout while preserving key architectural elements, including the Calhoun Street facade and side exterior walls. The result is a cohesive, modern facility designed with privacy, security, and emotional well-being at its core.

Inside, the design embraces warmth and tranquility, drawing inspiration from Louisiana’s natural landscapes to create a sense of renewal and growth. Bright colors and organic design elements contribute to a soothing atmosphere, while abundant natural light enhances the welcoming feel of the space. Private consultation rooms, a bright and airy waiting area overlooking the playground, and dedicated offices for scheduling, nursing, and forensic interviews ensure both comfort and functionality. Every detail of the facility was carefully considered to provide a safe, supportive environment where children and families can begin the healing process.

AOS was honored to play a role in bringing this vision to life. Our Designer/Project Manager Sara Woods worked with EDR and Children’s Hospital’s teams to furnish the Morgan Rae Center with pieces that seamlessly complemented the space’s calming aesthetic. For Woods, this project was deeply meaningful. “While it’s not the largest
project in size, it will have one of the greatest impacts on the lives of these children,” she explained. “Everyone involved understood the weight of what we were building, and we all worked with heart and purpose to bring it to life.”

“Sustainability is more than just a goal—it’s a responsibility,” shared Shelby Russ, Jr., President and CEO of AOS. “By repurposing high-quality furnishings, we were able to support the Morgan Rae Center for Hope in a way that was both environmentally conscious and community-focused that helps create a safe environment for children and families during a critical time in their lives.”

By blending thoughtful design, strategic reuse of materials, and a commitment to community well-being, the Morgan Rae Center for Hope is more than just a new facility— it’s a place where healing begins.”

Learn More about AOS’ Community Impact Report

This story was featured in our 2024 Community Impact Report. At AOS, we believe that great design goes hand in hand with great purpose. Our work on the Morgan Rae Center for Hope is just one example of how we’re supporting important community efforts across Louisiana and beyond.

Want to see more of the meaningful ways we’re making a difference? Click here to read our most recent Community Impact Report and learn how AOS is helping build stronger, more resilient communities through design, partnership, and purpose.