"Healthcare design refers to the process of designing and planning the physical layout and facilities of healthcare institutions, such as hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. This type of design takes into account the unique needs and requirements of patients, healthcare providers, and staff, and aims to create spaces that are functional, safe, and conducive to providing high-quality medical care. Healthcare design also considers factors such as accessibility, technology, and sustainability, as well as the psychological and emotional well-being of patients and healthcare workers.”

Healthcare facilities should provide a therapeutic environment in which the overall design of the building contributes to the process of healing and reduces the risk of healthcare-associated infections rather than simply being a place where treatment takes place.

What are the main goals of a healthcare design project?

1. Creating a calming and peaceful environment
   
   
2. Specify materials and detail in a way to improve infection control
   
   
3. Enhancing staff productivity
   
   
4. Creating an environment appropriate for the patient, family, staff, and medical team to facilitate communication, promote safety, and provide a level of care to achieve optimal results.
   
   
5. Consider technologies and advancements, modular approaches, potential replacement logistics of major equipment and lifecycles, how has the practice changed and are there changes coming
   
   
6. The key requirements for every floor, wall and coating system used in a healthcare environment can be divided into two main performance themes – cleanability and life-cycle maintenance. Both are intrinsically linked to infection prevention and control.

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Spatial Layout:

Create “spatial availability” with clear sight lines, high ceilings, and minimal barriers. This can increase a person’s sense of safety and decrease a perceived sense of crowding or being trapped. 

An easy to navigate space with consistent and clear signage creates a sense of calm, familiarity, and empowerment. Dedicated spaces for somatic/body therapies such as yoga and meditation rooms

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Furniture:

Arrangement of furniture needs to be considered for how it affects users’ sense of safety, perceived crowdedness, and relationship to staff (e.g., communicative or authoritative). Sitting face-to-face across a desk or table may be perceived as confrontational, whereas sitting corner to corner, without a barrier in-between can invite conversation and trust.

Choose furniture that has elements of softness, comfort, and “cocooning”, which can make users feel protected and safe 

In waiting or common areas, orient seating so users are facing out from sheltering walls

Always refer to the Principles of Universal Design to promote accessibility

Designated areas that provide a sense of privacy

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Visual and Aural Interest:

Limit visual complexity, such as distracting wallcoverings or carpeting. This can increase stress and anxiety

Symmetry and soft patterning can create a sense of safety and grounding

Minimise unnecessary and overwhelming ambient noises

Consider playing music that incorporates natural sounds

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Light & Color:

Ensure adequate lighting that does not buzz or flicker and include controls that can be manipulated for those with light sensitivities and visual impairment

Avoid deeply hued warm colors (red, orange, yellow)

Use cool colors (blue, green, purple) that create a calming effect. Lighter-colored rooms are perceived as more spatially available, and thus safer and more calming

Avoid stark white walls

Windows and natural light wherever possible

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Biophilic Design:

Research shows that settings that include vegetation, gardens, and green space reduce stress, pain, increase the rate of healing, promote peace, tranquility, enhanced self-esteem, and a sense of connection to the environment. Research also shows that even just views of nature (whether it be directly, through a window or looking at art), as well as indoor plants, are all associated with an increase in positive mood and comfort.

Plants perform an important biophilic function by not only connecting occupants to the natural world, but may improve air quality as well

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Healing gardens:

It’s a great amenity for patients, particularly those who are engaged in long-term or regular in-patient treatment.

They provide:

• a respite from the constant beeps
• a literal breath of fresh air
• a connection with nature
• a change of scenery

They can also be one of the first things on the chopping block when the project budget needs to be scrutinized.

Advocate for them on behalf of the patients who will one day get to enjoy them. Not to mention the staff who will be able to take a break during their shifts!

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References :

https://e4harchitecture.com/empathy-in-architecture-using-trauma-informed-design-to-promote-healing/

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