Hospital & Medical Floors

Hospitals are areas used to heal the sick. Comprised of multiple spaces from diagnostic units and clinical laboratories, to emergency rooms and surgery units, and food service and housekeeping; hospitals are complex spaces with multiple design considerations.

Design Considerations

Well done hospital design integrates utility with human needs. The National Institute of Building Sciences suggest the following attributes in a hospital or medical building:

• Efficiency and cost-effectiveness
• Flexibility and expandability
• A therapeutic environment
• Cleanliness and sanitation
• Accessibility
• Circulation
• Aesthetics
• Security and safety
• Sustainability

Material Considerations

Flooring that easy to clean and sterile works well in a medical setting. Composite, vinyl, and rubber flooring are widely used in hospitals and medical clinics. Carpet can be used in the common areas, although rarely used in spaces providing patient care.

Walls in a medical facility are monochromatic and light. Impervious materials are needed in a surgery room, but in doctor’s offices and patient rooms a simple water-based paint is used.

Intelligent Design

Counter space, storage units, sanitary trash receptacles, and powerful lighting are all important aspects in a medical or hospital design.