In a recent design showcase conducted by Healthcare Design Magazine, the use of biophilic design at a Texas hospital caught the attention of jurors. The culmination of an ambitious goal to evolve the traditional health facility into a community-driven health facilitator, the Texas Health Frisco wrapped up construction in 2019 and opened its doors to the public soon after.
In developing a health care facility that could incorporate community wellness and preventative programs as part of its general practices, design firm HKS sought to enhance the patient experience throughout the facility. This led to the design of a facility that would not only reflect the multi-faceted nature of the care that was being provided, but also one that would embody the unique landscape of the location in which it was built.
Growing the Patient Experience Through Biophilic Design
Throughout the facility, varied textures, materials, patterns and even geologic forms present in the area surrounding Frisk, Texas influence the design. In addition, the hospital employs a number of indoor/outdoor connections and an open-air suspended staff walkway connecting the hospital and clinic building.
“There is much innovation in the design’s support of the environment and working with the environment and natural weather patterns, which will impact the building and can enhance the experience,” said one juror.
“The blending of textures on the exterior and interior came together. The thought put into every detail is apparent,” praised another.
“The interior’s soothing colors, natural materials, and overlay of different elements are well placed, continuing to support the public’s expectations as one moves through the facility,” praised one yet more.
Additionally, sustainability strategies optimize operations and respond to local weather conditions, such as a solar analysis of glazing to achieve both interior daylighting and glare control with careful building orientation further sheltering outdoor areas from heat. Onsite irrigation is provided by rainwater and mechanical condensate capturing. The building itself also comes with a climate-responsive façade that’s resilient against extreme weather events and anticipated to have a 100-year lifespan.
Another version of this article originally appeared in Healthcare Design.
