Trends Defining Healthcare Design

Designers have much more latitude in healthcare design today than in years past. Not only have options for beautiful, durable surfaces improved, but patients, visitors and staff now expect these environments to include soft, subtle touches that improve the experience for all involved.

Below are several trends our design team has spotted at recent shows and from speaking with healthcare designers.

Biophilic spaces work under the premise that spending time in nature can have positive effects on mental and physical wellbeing. The presence of natural elements can lower stress, improve memory, heighten creativity and even decrease symptoms of depression.

In addition to using woodgrains as well as the colors of the earth and sky, the latest biophilic designs in healthcare can include:

Leaves: Incorporated mainly through upholstery and wallcoverings, these patterns are often large in scale, stylized and monochromatic. Formica Group’s Foliage pattern is one way to achieve this look.

Florals: Abstract and oversized botanical florals are replacing solid colors. These are stylized and typically tone on tone. Formica Envision™ Custom Laminate is a great option for turning unique designs or photos into high-performance laminate or HardStop® Wall Protection panels.

Waves: Organic waves and curved lines are being used to create interest without overwhelming the space. Formica® Brand patterns that incorporate soft movement include 180fx® Laminate in Neapolitan Stone, Fantasy Marble and Marbled Gray, in addition to Layered White Sand Formica® Laminate.

Healthcare settings increasingly embrace hospitality and residential warmth with soft, neutral colors. Particularly for nonacute healthcare settings like dental offices and elective surgery centers, there is often more latitude to make spaces feel like home with elevated touches that imbue a relaxing feel.

Off whites and warm beiges provide a neutral, comfortable backdrop that creates a cozy environment. Barely-there colors of light peach, blue, green and gold can add softness to waiting rooms and treatment furniture that might otherwise feel sterile.

Solid surface tabletops, countertop workstations and arm caps provide beauty and function in neutral soft colors. This material is commonly used in healthcare due to its durable, nonporous properties that permit deep cleaning and help prevent the growth of bacteria. 

Solid surface can also be molded into virtually any shape. The Everform^® Solid Surface Collection includes a full range of neutrals in solid colors and subtle patterns perfect for clean healthcare design.