Biophilic Design Example – The Phillips Family Cancer Center

Biophilia is the urge or desire to affiliate with life. The desire to connect with nature is innate and doing so can assist in healing and mental wellness. However, the majority of people today spend 90% of their time indoors. Biophilic design helps by bringing the healing elements of nature indoors. The Phillips Family Cancer Center, developed in partnership with The Southampton Hospital Foundation, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital, and Stony Brook Medicine was recently featured in Healthcare Design Magazine and is an excellent example of using biophilic principles to design a healing environment.

The photo featured here is of the second-floor infusion stations that were designed to maximize access to natural light and views of nearby nature.

The partitions used to offer privacy also act as art installments. The light-reflecting screens feature images of the surrounding fields. This helps patients feel surrounded by nature, offers privacy but doesn’t deviate from the open-air concept.

Biophilic design improves both physiological and psychological health, which is especially important as patients seeking treatment spend most of their time indoors.

Marie Wikoff is the creator of Wikoff Design Studio based out of Reno, Nevada. Her expertise in healthcare design has helped modernize healthcare organizations locally, regionally, and internationally, improving patient experience and outcomes. Her credentials include Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification (EDAC), American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designer (CHID), the National Council of Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) and LEED AP. Contact Marie Wikoff