In the Canadian health care interior design and architecture sector, modern hospitals have to ‘go beyond’ conventional and traditional design moulds.
The design practices of those in the health care sector have evolved dramatically to complement the equally evolved health care climate, a practice further influenced by the growing body of research and evidence suggesting strong links between design and quality of life.
For this reason, health care spaces across the country have evolved from merely functional spaces to highly considered facilities that maximise the potential of healing design principles. They no longer simply cater to patients needs, but also offer a high standard of living to those who use the facility.
This mentality has led the development of a strong holistic design foundation for the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, which will stand as the largest cardiovascular centre in the country. According to newly appointed design team HDR Architecture, it was important to design the $120 million health care centre was designed in a way that raises the benchmark on conventional design.
“We know that the design of cardiac centres is very different than that of a ‘typical’ hospital,” says HDR managing principal Ingrid Felso. “We also know that, when designed well, these spaces can aid in the healing process, enhance research, increase knowledge and translate discoveries – even prevent people from becoming unhealthy in the first place. We look forward to playing a part in this process.”
The large-scale development will cater to the needs of over 1.2 million area residents, with health care services provided by 75 to 100 staff and students and 15 to 20 new researchers. The facilities are expected to expand across 185,540 square feet.
Construction on the site is expected to begin in 2014 with completion estimated to be in 2017.
Health care development is high on many industry agendas across the country at the moment, with a recent spate of tender appointments and awards program recognition for sector projects.
