The long wait times, lack of privacy and uncomfortable seating can create added stress during hospital visits. Therefore, the intent of this design is to better the user experience of public hospital waiting rooms in order to better support mental and physical health while taking into account how the design changes across the Emergency, Birthing, and Pediatrics departments.
In order for the design to be successful, it should promote (1) calming and distracting elements in order to take the patient’s focus away from their mental/physical pains as well as (2) create a sense of control for the user over the environment.
The design will incorporate water (emergency department), fire (birthing department), and earth (pediatrics department). Water will provide peace and calmness for patients and caregivers in distress. Fire will create a cozy atmosphere and foster a space for gathering. Earthy elements will add warmth and texture, igniting curiosity in children.
