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Architecture

OEI provides comprehensive architectural design services from all phases of project delivery—from early planning and programming through schematic design, construction documentation, and construction administration. Our practice is defined by technical precision, collaborative engagement, and an in-depth understanding of operational requirements—delivering facilities that seamlessly integrate form, function, and long-term performance.

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We bring specialized expertise in:

  • Healthcare: Master planning, Hospitals, High-volume Medical Campuses, and Specialized Clinical Treatment or Support Facilities
  • Military Facilities: Barracks and Dormitories, Secure and Classified Environments, Detention and Confinement Facilities, Working Dog Training Centers and Kennels, and other Mission-critical Operational Buildings
  • Government & Civic Buildings: Courthouses, Correctional institutions, and Law Enforcement or Public Safety Centers
  • Commercial & Residential: Industrial Facilities, Infrastructure, Office Environments, Multi-family Housing, and Mixed-use Developments
  • Specialty Projects: Ecclesiastical and Faith-based design, Worship Environments, and Comprehensive Wayfinding Systems

 

With over two decades of experience with various clients, OEI possesses a deep understanding of the complex interplay among mission objectives, regulatory frameworks, and construction realities. Our team consistently delivers sustainable, efficient, and resilient design solutions that align with client vision, performance standards, and long-term operational goals.

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Featured Architecture Projects

OEI O'Brien Engineering & Architecture
Architecture rendering by OEI
Loma Linda Lobby by OEI

Community Living Center New Design at Big Spring Veterans Affairs Medical Center (TX)

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Growdon Gate architecture work by OEI
Growdon Gate architecture work by OEI in DFW

Growdon Gate Commercial Vehicle Inspection Pit New Design at Lackland Air Force Base (TX)

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Shephard AFB in Wichita Falls, by OEI
Shephard AFB Training Room by OEI
Shephard AFB Day Room by OEI
Shephard AFB rendering by OEI
Shephard AFB Admin Processing Room by OEI

Confinement Facility New Design at Sheppard Air Force Base (TX)

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VA Facility Corridor by OEI
VA Facility Nurse Station by OEI
VA Facility Inpatient Room by OEI

5C Nursing Unit and Staff Area Renovation – VA Facility

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OEI Loma Linda project

Loma Linda VA Hospital Courtyard Restoration

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Temple TX VA Hospital Surgical Suite by OEI

Surgical Suite Replacement – Temple VA Medical Center (TX)

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At the heart of our Architecture Department is a dedicated team of registered architects (RA), LEED accredited professionals (AP), Interior Designers (RID), and architectural designers who uphold OEI’s commitment to continuous improvement, technical excellence, teamwork, goal ownership, and unwavering ethical standards. Our team equally values aesthetic integrity by creating environments where visual harmony, context, and human experience unite to elevate both function and meaning. Together, we approach every project with a focus on innovation and precision, ensuring that our designs not only meet but exceed client expectations.
 
Explore our extensive design playbook to see examples of our work and how we translate vision into reality.
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To replace outdated patient care areas in a 1950s-era hospital, OEI supported the VA’s phased development of Community Living Centers focused on improved accessibility, observation, and quality of life. Our team conducted a comprehensive design review of prior phases, identifying critical omissions and proposing enhanced solutions.

 

Key improvements included:

  • Integration of storm shelters and life safety systems per TIL requirements
  • Energy-efficient insulation aligned with updated codes
  • Expanded outdoor seating and large curtainwall openings for visual connection to nature
  • Clerestory windows for increased natural light and residential ambiance
  • Secure design features: wander-guard systems, blast-resistant elements, and laminated glazing

 

OEI’s design was ultimately selected and praised for its superior functionality, compliance, and patient-centered approach.

As the sole inspection facility for large commercial vehicles at JBSA-Lackland, the CVIP processes over 130 inspections weekly and supports 36 personnel daily. OEI was engaged to address critical ATFP and operational deficiencies through a full design upgrade aligned with UFC standards. The comprehensive package included:

  • Civil, architectural, structural, electrical, and mechanical/plumbing design – Technical specifications and design analyses
  • Detailed cost estimates to support efficient implementation

OEI delivered the full design for a new 5,000 sf Level I, 8-cell confinement facility on a 50,000 sf site at Sheppard AFB. The project included site improvements, utilities, fire suppression, communications, cybersecurity of facility control systems, and associated support spaces.

Key design features included:

  • Compliance with UFC and NIC standards, integrating advanced security and safety measures
  • Distinctive butterfly roof for natural light, mechanical system efficiency, and campus aesthetic alignment
  • Durable, comfortable interior materials supporting secure and functional operations
  • Sustainable design guided by Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) per UFC 1-200-02, optimizing long-term energy and maintenance performance

OEI collaborated closely with stakeholders to define goals and deliver a secure, efficient, and cost-effective facility.

OEI designed a new nursing unit and staff support area within the 5C wing, featuring five specialized patient room types: regular, isolation, bariatric, bariatric isolation, and mental health. The centralized Nurse Station was strategically placed to maximize visibility and response time, with direct sightlines to mental health rooms and isolation anterooms to control contamination.

 

Key design elements included:

  • Updated elevator lobby and staff amenities (conference, break, locker, and storage rooms)
  • Clear wayfinding through ceiling, flooring, and desk layout to distinguish public and clinical zones
  • Home-like patient rooms with space for caregivers and family, tailored to patient needs
  • Thorough review of reference designs and TIL compliance, leading to a revised and accepted proposal

 

OEI’s approach emphasized safety, functionality, and patient-centered care while aligning with VA standards and stakeholder goals.

OEI delivered full design services to restore and enhance three interior courtyards atop lower roof structures at the Loma Linda VA Hospital. The project addressed chronic drainage failures and water intrusion caused by poor penetrations and planter overflow.

 

Key improvements included:

  • Removal of all planters and redesign of drainage systems
  • New concrete installation with integrated cove base to prevent leaks
  • Collaboration with roof consultants to optimize waterproofing and system integration
  • Shaded outdoor seating and dining areas designed for patient, visitor, and staff comfort
  • Distinct paving and furniture concepts for each courtyard:
  • Courtyard #1: “Beautiful Hill (Loma Linda)”
  • Courtyard #2: “Digital Camouflage Patterns”
  • Courtyard #3: “Military Ribbons”

 

OEI’s design blends functionality, aesthetics, and pride of place—enhancing the healing environment while resolving long-standing infrastructure issues.

OEI designed a 23,000 SF surgical suite addition and renovated adjacent service areas at the historic Teague VAMC, originally built in 1942.

 

The project included:

  • Four new operating rooms: general, specialty/ortho, robotics, and hybrid
  • Exterior envelope of masonry veneer, metal panels, and aluminum storefront system
  • Clean, functional interior finishes and full medical equipment planning
  • Elevated surgical suite design on piers to align with existing second-floor operations
  • Ground-level mechanical space to support equipment servicing and minimize cross-contamination
  • Basement modifications for endoscope flow, decontamination, and pass-through AER integration
  • Upgraded utilities and electrical service to meet VA design standards and maintain ongoing operations

 

OEI’s design balanced modern surgical functionality with legacy infrastructure, delivering a compliant, efficient, and future-ready solution.