Healthcare

Our Approach

At Spencer + Company we believe in patient and family-centered design. We take a holistic, evidence-based approach to the spaces we transform. Natural light and access to nature are critical for patient recovery. Studies have shown that patients who experience nature during their recovery, require less pain medication, have fewer post-surgical complications and ultimately recover more quickly. ¹

Safe-design is also integrated into all of our environments. The finishes we select are integral to the facility and keeping the space clean and infection-free. While the finishes need to be safe, they should also be soothing. Through our color mastery, we create welcoming spaces leveraging color to calm the senses, relax the patient and ultimately reduce their stress.

¹ Roger Ulrich, View Through a window-1984

Additionally, we strive to create a positive experience for family, friends and the staff. The spaces they utilize should have an inviting feel and provide them with comfort and movement. We understand there are many tasks they may perform during their visit, therefore we invite choice and control within the space. Family members and staff should be able to work, lounge or discuss matters privately within the space.

We continue to stay at the forefront of research and trends, understanding the impact new findings have on the patient. Our listen-first approach allows us to gain an in-depth understanding of our clients’ needs and create clearly-defined goals, keeping the patient as our priority throughout our design process.

Zone 1

Reception and Main Lobby

First Impressions. The lobby offers an immediate opportunity to create a welcoming environment that put patients and visitors at ease, as this first encounter sets the stage for the entire experience.

The registration area should allow the patient privacy as they check-in and should be an organized and efficient space for the caregiver.

Zone 2

Exam Room

The Exam room has evolved into a space that builds trust and confidence. It’s important to foster communication and collaboration between clinicians, patients, and family members while maximizing space and privacy and to accommodate the changing needs of technology. Creating a flexible space that adapts between exam and consultative activities without compromising patient safety and wellness is key.

Zone 3

Patient Room

Today’s model is built on doctor-patient-family member collaboration—this is how doctors want to partner with their patients.

Patient rooms that convey comfort, wellness and security help to create a more relaxed experience for all users. Space and comfort for the family is vital to the healing process as well. Studies have revealed that patients that have more interaction with friends and family are able to heal faster.

Zone 4

Nurses Station

Nurses areas should be organized and allow the caregiver to work comfortably and efficiently. A majority of their time is spent interacting with family members and other clinicians. The space should support the different types of collaboration and conversation. A blend of ergonomic office furnitures, including seated to standing-height worksurfaces is ideal for these areas.

Zone 5

Family Waiting | Sub Waiting

These areas are a significant opportunity for improving the healthcare experience. A residential feel in waiting areas helps loved ones unwind as they wait. By providing more choices and allowing range of areas to work, read or have a private conversation are important in creating a space where family members can relax and feel at home.

Zone 6

Consultation

Our goal is to help the patient navigate the best possible route towards wellness and a better life. Creating spaces that help support the relationship between patients and caregiver allow both sides to build trust.

Zone 7

Break + Lounge

More than Coffee. Taking inspiration from communal spaces in the workplace, lounges can become a space for collaboration and be an essential part of the healthcare workplace, be the buzzing hub of the hospital. Where staff share ideas, information, and issues, stay up on the latest practices, bond with their peers—ultimately resulting in better, more efficient care. Practically speaking, medical professionals need space where they can make private phone calls, or have one-on-one conversations. Shifts can be long and stressful, so the lounge needs to also be a space for decompression and contemplation.

Zone 8

Administration

Behind the scenes. Your administrative staff are who keep your organization running smoothly. Office plans and layout designs for private offices, meeting rooms, training areas, and individual workstations are addressed with the same thoughtful planning as patient spaces. Supporting the ergonomic requirements of your staff needs while establishing a cohesive look throughout your facility.