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San Quentin is one of the USA’s most infamous prisons. It was described as a “living hell” by Johny Cash, but recently it underwent a Nordic-style makeover that focuses on creating an atmosphere of rehabilitation and peace. Now coined the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, the prison is one of the oldest in California, and originally opened back in 1852. The makeover is being led by Danish studio Schmidt Hammer Lassen in collaboration with McCarthy Building Companies and local firm DLR Group.

Designer: Schmidt Hammer Lassen, McCarthy Building Companies & DLR Group

Currently, there is a single render that showcases a lovely green garden area that is filled with lush nature. It looks quite warm, inviting, and pleasant when you consider it is a US prison. The aim was to create a peaceful and relaxed campus-like experience for the population. A pre-existing warehouse on the site was demolished, and one of the three stone walls was removed to create three educational buildings and a perimeter entrance.

The available classroom space will be tripled, and it will include a library, a technology and media center, a cafe, and a store. There will also be an upgrade in housing and a town-style square area, as well as family visit areas. The project is currently in progress and will be completed in early 2026. It has a budget of US$240 million.

“California is transforming San Quentin – our state’s most notorious prison – into the nation’s most innovative rehabilitation facility focused on building a brighter and safer future,” says California Governor Gavin Newsom. “We are literally tearing down walls to reimagine our prison system, incentivize true rehabilitation, and end cycles of violence and crime. Brick by brick, we’re building a new future that will make all of us safer,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.

The post “Living Hell” San Quentin Prison Is Getting A Pleasant Nordic-Inspired Makeover With A Campus-Like Design first appeared on Yanko Design.