INTERIORS & INTERIOR DESIGN
THE IMPACT OF GOOD ACOUSTICS
Light , air , acoustics and spatial organisation are well recognised as essential elements when designers work on medical and healing facilities . This is because they have an impact on the treatment of body and mind . Now a wealth of information is available from Troldtekt , a leading developer and manufacturer of acoustic ceiling and wall solutions . This is available in an online series of articles which focuses on visions and practices opportunities and pitfalls within healing architecture .
Interestingly , the internationally acknowledged MIPIM Awards have in recent years started celebrating outstanding healthcare design . The award is an acknowledgement of the role architecture plays in healing and treatment of both physical and mental illnesses . The UK ’ s recent Mental Health Awareness Week also reinforces the severity of the issues around mental health .
Right design is especially critical for people suffering from mental illness or feeling unwell . According to Swedish architects White Arkitekter , a good example is their design for the Ostra Hospital psychiatric facility where traditional conventions have been replaced by an open and unrestricted environment characterised by tranquillity and light . The area is also not isolated from the rest of the building .
Södra Älvsborg Hospital in Borås ( Sweden ) © Felix Gerlach .
Design category , their starting point was that the architecture must cater for people ’ s need to feel safe and to improve their well-being . In designing the interior , the emphasis has always been on soft , round shapes ( no sharp edges ), while the colours strike a balance between providing stimulating sensory impressions and instilling a sense of calm . They say that the choice of materials , such as wood , also plays a key role because it adds warmth and naturalness .
Another key aspect has been specifying superior acoustics , such as in the psychiatric ward in their design for the Södra Älvsborg Hospital in Borås . Recently shortlisted for the European Healthcare Design 2021 Awards in the Mental Health
Samples , case studies and technical guidance are available from tel 01978 664255 or Troldtekt . co . uk while the theme can be found at www . troldtekt . com / news / themes / healingarchitecture
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