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Connecting to Nature
Interior design elements reinforce a connection to nature theme in the latest building addition on Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley campus. The addition was designed by Hasenstab Architects (Akron, Ohio). The design theme reflects the surrounding area which is a beautiful park. In the photo shown here, circular cutouts in the second floor seating area funnel natural light into space from the two-story lobby. Fun animal sculptures and warm, inviting finishes provide places for discovery and relaxation.
Bringing the Outside In
Butterflies, birds, and turtles are carried throughout the space with graphics, signs, and textiles to enhance wayfinding and positive distraction. Brightly colored play areas provide engaging spaces for patients to wait for appointments. Branding elements, such as circular cutout details and large mural graphics, were carried over from Akron Children’s Hospital Kay Jewelers Pavilion in Akron, Ohio, to create a sense of connection between the two campuses.
Team Collaborators
It took many hands to take the imagined space to a reality. Hospital administrators, patient families, staff, and construction team members were engaged during three-day workshops to test various set-ups and layouts as the design was further refined.
Project team
Owner: Akron Children’s Hospital
Architect: Hasenstab Architects
Interior designer: Hasenstab Architects
MEP engineers: CJL Engineering
Civil engineers: Thomas Fok & Associates
Structural engineers: Seidler Engineering
Construction managers: Murphy Contracting Co.
Photo Credit: SCOTT PEASE PHOTOGRAPHY
