Although being stuck in a hospital is no treat, the new Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Glasgow has a number of stations in waiting room areas to make the experience more enjoyable for hospitalized children.
In collaboration with the Glasgow Science Centre, the hospital created music-playing tables, graffiti walls, marble mazes, touchscreen coloring books and ceiling that's lined with fiber optic lights. One of the most impressive stations is a screen where kids can see their own image appear in a story as it unfolds. On top of being purely enjoyable, these stations also promote skill-building in kids as well.
Although it's of the utmost importance for hospital rooms to be functional, introducing elements of play into the design of a physical space helps to give relief to tired parents and anxious children as they go through stressful situations.
Interactive Hospital Walls
These Waiting Room Walls Now Entertain Hospitalized Children in the UK
Trend Themes
1. Interactive Waiting Room Stations - The trend of incorporating interactive stations in waiting rooms provides entertainment and skill-building opportunities for hospitalized children.
2. Integration of Technology in Hospital Design - The trend of integrating technology like touchscreen coloring books and music-playing tables in hospital design enhances patient experience and promotes creativity.
3. Emphasis on Playful Healing Environments - The trend of creating playful healing environments in hospitals, illustrated by graffiti walls and marble mazes, helps alleviate stress and anxiety for children and parents.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - The healthcare industry can explore innovative solutions like interactive waiting room stations to enhance patient experience and well-being.
2. Hospitality - The hospitality industry can draw inspiration from the integration of technology and playful environments to create engaging and entertaining spaces for guests.
3. Education - The education industry can leverage interactive elements in physical spaces, like touchscreen coloring books, to promote creativity and learning in children.