HOSPITALS
competing demand for space and the commercial values that can be placed upon this space can be prohibitive . However , with an increasingly ageing population , the benefits of green space and lifestyle are obvious .”
So , as populations age and priorities shift , could this example be followed across the globe , marking the start of a new era in hospital design ? Dawson says that , with this design , MetroHealth has managed to truly integrate health and green space into a seamless landscape that promotes wellbeing , and connects the facility with the local neighborhood and key stakeholders .
Upon the release of the new plans in January , a MetroHealth statement said : “ Adding all this green to our footprint isn ’ t just about beautifying our campus . We ’ ll be able to incorporate therapies and arts in medicine programming into patients ’ healing regimens .”
That approach has created a synergy which Dawson believes could create a trend for this type of design . “ There is a boldness to the plans that firmly place the patient at the center of its design strategy ,” he says . “ The fact that the executive team have had the vision and courage to challenge the past should be applauded .
“ I can see a future where developers and land owners actively seek out healthcare organisations to input and shape the urban landscape . The upstream links to wellbeing also provide an emerging commercial opportunity for redevelopment . The cultural changes to a more active and informed lifestyle creates an opportunity to develop commercial and retail offerings that support these choices .”
Challenges beyond green space However , integrating more green space into hospital construction is not without its challenges , and
40 February 2018