ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN


Rather than relying only on traditional signage, Floyd Slaski has re-shaped the experience for the facility’s young users, introducing a ‘ludic element’ consisting of assigning an animal character to each patient upon arrival.


restroom areas. The use of distinct, yet gentle colours helps patients navigate the space easily and intuitively, reducing the cognitive load on both children and parents.


2) Innovative wayfinding solutions Navigating hospital spaces can be confusing, particularly for children and individuals with cognitive impairments. To address this, we incorporated playful wayfinding elements into the design. Rather than relying only on traditional signage, we have re-shaped the experience, introducing a ludic element consisting of assigning an animal character to each patient upon arrival. To find their way towards their appointment, patients need to find and follow their character, which is incorporated within the signage and the decorative elements within the department. This approach not only helps children navigate the space, but also introduces a sense of play and adventure, making the journey less daunting. David Rock,4


a leading expert on


neuroleadership, argues that ‘a sense of control is one of the fundamental drivers of reducing stress’. Wayfinding strategies that empower patients to feel in control of their environment – such as Ashford’s animal character coding – can significantly reduce anxiety levels. In addition, clear and intuitive visual cues, such as the use


of different-coloured doors for staff- only areas and public spaces, simplify navigation even further. These wayfinding strategies help reduce confusion and anxiety, allowing patients and families to focus on the care they are receiving.


3) Inclusive spatial arrangements One of the key challenges in designing hospital spaces is accommodating the diverse needs of patients with physical and sensory disabilities. Inclusive design expert, Dr. Judith Heerwagen,5


wider range of patients, and that no one feels excluded or unsupported.


4) Material selection and sensory considerations


known for


her work on biophilic design and its impact on mental health, explains that ‘spaces that engage the senses, while providing refuge from overstimulation, are critical for patient wellbeing’. The layout for the new Paediatric Department in Ashford was optimised to allow easy movement for patients with mobility aids, while sensory-friendly spaces – such as a dedicated sensory room, provide a safe and calming environment for children who might feel overwhelmed in a typical hospital setting. Equipped with soft lighting, tactile wall panels, and sound-absorbing materials, the sensory room offers a peaceful refuge for children who need a break from the more stimulating areas of the hospital. By offering different types of spaces tailored to individual needs, the aim was to ensure that the hospital can accommodate a


The selection of materials in hospital design can have a significant impact on the overall atmosphere of the space. For the Children and Young People’s Outpatients Department, we chose materials that are both safe and psychologically soothing. Flooring, wall finishes, fixtures, and fittings, were selected not only for their durability and ease of cleaning, but also for their acoustic, tactile, and visual properties. Using materials with sound-dampening qualities helps reduce noise levels, creating a quieter, more peaceful environment. This is especially important for neurodiverse individuals, who may be sensitive to loud or sudden noises. Professor Peter Barrett,6 an expert on learning environments and their impact on wellbeing, has noted that ‘acoustic design is critical in reducing stress, particularly in environments where concentration and communication are essential’. The tactile qualities of the materials used were considered, with the aim of providing a comforting, engaging experience for patients. Soft, non-reflective surfaces were used to avoid overwhelming visual stimuli, further contributing to creating a calming atmosphere for all throughout.


Soothing blue floors and yellow doors are specific to the consultation rooms, while mint-coloured doors indicate restroom areas. 36 NOVEMBER 2024 | THE NETWORK


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