Evidence-based practices have become increasingly vital in shaping innovative, patient-centric environments, specifically in healthcare design. Parkin recognizes the significance of EBD and is taking steps to further empower its architects, designers, and clients through an expanded research database. This blog introduces Parkin’s new research resources, highlighting how they facilitate access to EBD research and support the overall design objectives on current and future projects. Read more

The concept of inclusion has become increasingly important in our evolving society. When it comes to architecture, the need for inclusive design has gained significant traction within the industry. Architectural and interior designers play crucial roles in creating spaces that are accessible and accommodating to all types of individuals. In this blog, we will explore the essence of universal design, redefining accessibility in architecture, and how to create an inclusive approach within the architectural process. Read more

Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of working with Canada’s leading hospitals for women and children. We know designing healthcare facilities is a challenging task. As a result, we take a thorough-yet-compassionate, patient-centric approach to design in order to promote positive energy and support the healing process in the environments we create. Mothers are an integral part of a child’s healthcare journey. This is why we bring them, their children, and the community into the design process. We love working directly with patients to understand their needs and preferences so we can create functional environments that promote their well-being. Using this patient-design process, we developed five, distinct, interior design spaces for mothers and their children in healthcare facilities. Read more

Designing for empathic rather than coercive care

Our Evidence-Based Design (EBD) team recently led a Hot Topics event that shared the experience of the Reimagining Behavioural Emergency Environments Workshop in Scottsdale, Arizona, in December 2022.  Attendees convened in small groups that included clinicians, and/or patient/patient reps, and designers. The groups were guided through a human-centred design and process improvement. The purpose of this workshop was to change the way healthcare is delivered through simple, systematic change. Read more

In our last blog post, we explored the healing effects of organic design in healthcare facilities. Organic architecture not only provides relaxing spaces for staff and patients, but the design philosophy also ensures that a hospital fits harmoniously with the environment in which it is built. In this post, we’ll look more closely at some of the materials used as part of the organic design ethos. Read more

Organic architecture is a design philosophy that emphasizes the harmony between human habitation and the natural world.  Perhaps the most famous example of this philosophy is Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Fallingwater—a building that seems to grow out of its very surroundings.  Wright designed the building to be a retreat for its owners, a space for calm and healing. Read more