Most topics discussing hospital design focus on creating a welcoming interior. Obviously, this is important for making patients feel comfortable and relaxed. However, a hospital’s exterior is a patient’s first point of contact with the facility and therefore important for setting the stage for a calm experience. Below, we cover some practical ways to create a more aesthetic, inviting hospital exterior.
Introduce Lush Greenery
Plants have an incredible power to simultaneously liven and calm an environment, which is something all hospital exteriors can benefit from. You should hire a landscaping company to plant and maintain beautiful greenery on your facility’s grounds. You can even have plants growing up the side of your building with the use of metal fabrics, which are like durable, professional trellises.
Use Warm Colors and Natural Materials
If your hospital looks industrial and sterile, it could use an update. Concrete and white paint don’t exactly comfort approaching patients.
Instead, materials like natural stone, wood, or brick bring color, warmth, and interest to hospitals. The result is an exterior that looks thoughtful and beautiful, instantly reassuring patients.
Use Lots of Glass
Windows are a hospital’s best friends. They let in plenty of natural light indoors and simultaneously make the outside look more inviting. This is because glass is transparent, which can subconsciously indicate to patients that your facility has nothing to hide.
Install Generous Lighting
Exterior lighting is essential for safety, as people and vehicles navigate hospital parking lots at night all the time. However, lighting does more than improve security. It also makes the exterior more inviting, reinforcing a positive first impression.
Decorate With Sculptures and Water Features
Adding sculptures and water features to the hospital grounds introduces artistic elements that are pleasing and comforting to look at. For instance, thoughtfully chosen art can inspire reflection and conversation, making the environment feel less clinical. Water features, such as fountains or ponds, provide soothing sounds and visuals that can alleviate anxiety for patients and visitors alike.
As you invest in and update your hospital’s design, don’t neglect its exterior. These ways to create a more aesthetic, inviting hospital exterior will improve the patient experience and your hospital’s reputation.
