Sunset Ridge Healthcare
Sunset Ridge Healthcare is a completed class assignment. The design serves a variety of purposes, specifically towards the aging population and the increasing need for reduced wait times for surgeries and diagnostics. Population aging has increased healthcare costs and services, treatment times and long-term care and is expected to
continue to grow (CMA, 2018). Therefore it is imperative to expand the
healthcare services aimed to care for this population. Sunset Ridge Healthcare aims to restore well-being through the symbolism of a sunset. The "envision your sunset moment" concept reflects the feeling of well-being, reducing the feelings of stress, anxiety and sadness when receiving care in a healthcare setting. Patient's needs, prior experiences, and backgrounds are all different which needs to be considered when designing any wayfinding program. The sunset concept takes a holistic approach to healing as it recognizes the individuality of patients' needs and experiences. It does this by using colors to allow the user to think of their most serene sunset moment and where that took place. These colors are bright to help with visual contrast that meets the needs of the aging population. The concepts relation to the wayfinding program lies behind the symbols in the simple vertical lines going through a circle. This represents the stages of a sunset and the journey it takes a person on when watching one. The symbols themselves were chosen to be identifiable by anyone with little need for interpretation. Just like a sunset, one should be able to feel calm and serene when watching it go below the horizon line and not have to think about anything but the present moment. Studies indicate that sunsets can have multiple psychological benefits that improve overall life satisfaction and physical well-being. Over recent years, scientists have studied the effects that sunsets have on mental health. They have been scientifically proven to help reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and sadness. Watching a sunset in your perfectly envisioned location reminds you to slow down and be present in the moment. By combining ones perfect outdoor setting with a sunset will create a combination feeling of belonging and relaxation knowing you are somewhere familiar and safe (Palmer, 2020). The sun itself is a force of all life, the rays of a setting or rising sun can rejuvenate the soul and help you feel better in times of need. Research also shows that watching the sun as it goes below the horizon has a stimulating effect on the "pineal gland". This occurs when direct sunlight enters the eye, passes through the retinal-hypothalamic tract, and ultimately reaches the brain. As a result, the production of melatonin and serotonin begins. These are both hormones that contribute to feelings of well-being, also known as "feel good" hormones (7 Benefits of Catching Sunsets - VITA Daily, 2020). The floor plan features diagnostic imaging suite, a surgical suite, café, elevator entrance, reception and waiting area. The suites are located on the east and west wings of the hospital. A wayfinding program is used to direct patients to each location and is color blocked to it's designated areas. For example the signage indicates that the surgical suite is the color "Raspberry Blush" and that color is used within the location. Consideration for accessibility, function and ergonomics was considered for the overall mapping of the hospital.
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