January 25 2024

Moves to reset traditional clinical design standards in paediatric care have been realised within a novel theatre reception within the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.

Spearheaded by design company Graven in collaboration with consultants the project seeks to improve the hospital environment for children, their families and staff by creating a less institutional environment. To that end illustrator Laura Darling was commissioned to map out the patient journey through large format artworks which adorn corridor walls where unlikely creatures reside to accompany patient movements.

Lead designer Renee Chater said: “One of the spaces is a small, very ordinary meeting room. The brief would seem simple but when asked the right questions it became clear that the spaces had numerous jobs, from consoling distressed parents to team meetings and staff interviews.

“We took all of this into account when redesigning the space and created something that is rich and uplifting - using colour, texture and commissioned illustrations from Mark Faulkner.

“In the reception area we re-orientated the key elements to create a less stressful flow to the space. The reception desk is a welcoming focal point. It is colourful and playful, low and approachable and nice to touch. The options for sitting and talking are numerous."

Graven director Ross Hunter added: “We’re delighted with the result – it’s energetic, and optimistic. It’s playful without being overtly childish. And it is deeply satisfying to see people interacting with design in a way that could never have happened before."

Initiated five years ago by consultant anaesthetist Dr Alyson Walker the work was funded by Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.

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