Moreover, each hospital floor is assigned an animal found in its region, which is repeated in environmental graphics throughout the floor. Careful thought was given to the selection of materials used – such as bamboo doors for patient rooms and custom-designed elements and furnishings like sculptural, wood pendant light fixtures – providing a non-institutional quality unlike that of a typical hospital.Putting families at the “center” of care was a key design objective, as studies have shown that children heal better when their family is directly involved.

All rooms and workspaces provide comfortable places to involve families in the healing process, while enhancing staff workflow. From therapeutic gardens and a dedicated art studio, to a wellness center and expanded sleeping and storage facilities, new trends were explored to create an atmosphere of hospitality and healing within the patient room and throughout the hospital. The patient floors have two-story, glass-enclosed family lounges offering excellent views and an open, spacious and bright feel.

Designed to mimic a home environment, the lounges provide space for respite and relaxation and enable families to gather and share a meal, watch television, play games, etc. and further contribute to an atmosphere of hospitality. The patient rooms all feature expansive 10-foot ceilings which create a sense of volume while providing enough space for a clerestory light into the corridor, directing more natural light into the core of the building. The large windows frame city and mountain views; and a bamboo headwall with a curving wood canopy over the bed, provides a comforting enclosure around the child.

Each room is equipped with a double sleeper sofa for family members, along with a wardrobe closet and storage space under the sofa for personal items. An entertainment module, additional patient/family storage and a niche for personal items are incorporated into the footwall of the room. Designing a healing environment for children and families under stress is a unique opportunity. This design works to create a place full of inspiration, with a sense of unexpected discovery and thoughtful distractions.

The role of art was established as a major contributor to developing a healing, animated environment at Randall Children’s Hospital. Art is intended to be a catalyst for providing positive distractions, creating destinations, and enlivening spaces. From the animal frieze in the lobby, the trees and birdhouses in the gallery, to the animals and other environmental graphics in the corridors and patient rooms, the art installations in Randall Children’s Hospital contribute to an environment of inspiration and healing for all to enjoy.