Birch Tree Oxford Grand Opening

The finished product, following extensive renovation of the existing gymnasium building.

Birch Tree Communities recently celebrated the opening of a newly renovated branch complex in Izard County, marking a significant expansion of its Oxford program. The project greatly increases both activity areas and administrative space available to the organization.

The facility was created by renovating a former school gymnasium located next to the existing program center. The structure had been vacant for several years and required extensive repairs before it could be repurposed. Planning and renovation began in 2025 through a collaboration between Sowell Ferris Architects and LiveCo Construction.

The work included substantial upgrades to restore and transform the building. Renovations involved asbestos abatement, clearing out animals that had occupied the abandoned structure, and a complete interior redesign to support the needs of the Oxford branch.

The completed complex now includes a variety of new amenities, such as a full gymnasium, an expressive arts studio, an exercise room, expanded office areas, a kitchen for gatherings and events, and a maintenance shop.

The new office space also provides dedicated work areas for Birch Tree Communities’ chief clinical officer and a psychiatric nurse practitioner who serves several of the organization’s northern Arkansas locations.

Todd McGuire, chief operations officer and licensed professional counselor, noted that the addition will provide valuable opportunities for members. He explained that the new spaces will support physical activity, therapeutic arts, and social connection beyond the existing program center.

The renovation reflects Birch Tree Communities’ continued efforts to expand services and improve resources for adults living with serious mental illness throughout Arkansas.

The condition of the existing building prior to the extensive renovations.