Hospitals & Healing via Biophilic Design
We reference Biophilic Design frequently at TreeScapes & PlantWorks because it is a crucial element of every project we do. Recent industry articles addressing COVID-19 and hospital design have also recommended healing via Biophilic Design.
Studies have shown that observing nature – and images or representations of nature – is correlated to faster patient recovery times and reduced perception of pain. Architects, designers, and decorators can use this information to help create hospitals that nurture via the power of nature!
The Discover Magazine article, Healing in the Hospital Starts With the Architect, details the early studies and findings by researcher Roger Ulrich:
Ulrich’s study, which was published in Science in 1984, is frequently cited as the beginning of a new era, the birth of what became known as evidence-based design. Doctors took an oath to do no harm — shouldn’t health care architects do the same thing? In the years since, researchers have discovered numerous ways to improve the hospital environment. Many expanded on Ulrich’s initial findings, providing even more proof of the healing power of nature. Nearly any kind of nature, they found, seems to do the trick.
The article mentions several “non-traditional” types of nature that have the same positive effects as direct interaction with the outside world. Scenic views, paintings of natural landscapes, ambient nature sounds, indoor plants, and watching nature videos have all been found as positive additions to the healing environment.
TreeScapes & PlantWorks has a long history of providing artificial trees and plants to hospitals. The most popular options include large bamboo displays, integrated technology Smart-Trees, and colorful, comforting play areas for children’s waiting areas and patient rooms.
Are you wondering why a hospital would choose artificial trees and plants instead of the real thing? There are several great reasons! Our products are:
- Non-allergenic
- Easy to clean and disinfect
- Pesticide and herbicide free
- Low maintenance
- Inherently Fire Retardant
Faux horticulturals are perfect for healing environments, and the advantages don’t stop there. We don’t use live soil or water, so there’s no mess or mold to worry about. They don’t lose their leaves, decay, or die, either.
If you’re curious about our Biophilic Design products, contact us today. We have tons of hospital and residential care facilities as clients, but you can also bring the same healing elements to your office, restaurant, or retail store!
