Hospital infrastructure: Architecture, the new doctor in the recovery room

From skylights to healing gardens, hospitals are embracing design elements that accelerate healing and enhance patient well-being

Hospitals are increasingly focusing on integrating architectural elements that promote patient well-being and recovery. Features such as spacious rooms with natural light, soothing colour palettes, and healing gardens are gaining popularity. Technological advancements, including automated systems and noise-reduction techniques, further enhance patient comfort and staff efficiency.

 

Hospitals like Fortis Healthcare, Aster DM Healthcare, Jehangir, Sahyadri, Paras Health, CK Birla, Jupiter, and Max Healthcare are taking steps to ensure their facilities prioritise healing through both medical care and improved amenities.

 

At Aster DM, rooms are ergonomically designed with intuitive layouts to minimise patient movement and ensure privacy. Large windows and skylights flood spaces with natural light, while soundproofing measures reduce disturbances in critical care areas. Materials such as low-volatile organic compound (VOC) paints and antimicrobial coatings enhance safety, and biophilic green spaces create a calming environment that supports quicker recovery.

 

“All our internal walls are covered with low-VOC paints, and antimicrobial coatings on surfaces ensure a safe and healthy environment for patients. Homogeneous, noise-dampening materials like vinyl improve quality, safety, and comfort in critical care areas,” said a spokesperson for Aster DM.

 

Similarly, Fortis uses modular hospital designs to ensure flexibility, soundproofing to maintain tranquillity, and lighter pastel colour schemes for a soothing visual experience. Fortis also integrates family zones within patient rooms to provide emotional support during recovery.

 

“Hospital designs now emphasise holistic well-being, including natural light, calming colours, and ample space for relaxation. The shift towards private rooms and family zones reflects a change in the industry. With our strategies, we aim to improve the experience for both patients and attendants,” said Anil Vinayak, group chief operating officer, Fortis.

 

To reduce feelings of claustrophobia, spacious rooms, often exceeding 950 square feet per bed, are available at Paras Health, offering plenty of space for movement. Large windows and skylights are strategically placed to ensure rooms receive ample natural light, which has been shown to uplift mood and aid recovery.

 

Post-pandemic, there has been a growing demand for single-occupancy rooms, equipped with features for temperature control and enhanced privacy. Technology is now at the forefront of hospital upgrades. Max Super Speciality Hospital in Dwarka is equipped with adjustable lighting and temperature controls, as well as Nurse Call Systems and bedside controls for easy access to assistance.

 

Max Healthcare incorporates art and music therapy. “Designated areas with calming murals and access to soothing music help reduce stress for patients and families. These efforts not only contribute to better patient outcomes but also reinforce our commitment to serve beyond medical care.” said Arpita Mukherjee - Senior Vice President Operations & Unit Head - Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka.

 

Fortis has adopted touch-free solutions, such as motion-activated faucets and doors, to enhance hygiene and safety.

 

Innovative systems like smart grids, energy-efficient lighting, and Internet of Things devices enable personalised care and streamline communication.

 

Jupiter Hospital has adopted electronic health records for better data management and coordination among healthcare providers. The hospital also focuses on reducing airborne infections through advanced HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, air filtration, and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation.

 

"Hospital architecture must address the full spectrum of patient well-being—physical, emotional, and social. At Jupiter Hospitals, we focus on integrating sustainable practices, privacy for patients, and technology to ensure a holistic care experience that prioritizes comfort, safety, and emotional well-being for both patients and staff." stated Neelesh Shinde, Group Chief Technical Officer & Head - Projects, Jupiter Hospitals.

 

Hospitals are also harnessing the power of nature. Healing gardens, landscaped courtyards, and even indoor plants are becoming common features, fostering a sense of tranquillity and connecting patients with the outdoors.

 

“We’ve integrated open courtyards and green spaces into our designs to create an environment that promotes mental well-being alongside physical healing,” said Vinod Sawantwadkar, chief executive officer of Jehangir Hospital.

 

Sahyadri Group of Hospitals has strategically placed its facilities to minimise movement within the hospital. The hospital chain focuses on holistic care, providing accessibility features for elderly patients and extending services beyond the hospital setting through home care options.

 

“At Sahyadri Hospitals, architecture supports efficient workflows while ensuring patient comfort. Features like spacious rooms, natural light, and quiet zones are key elements in our design. From durable finishes to non-toxic paints, we ensure every material used supports safety and sustainability,” stated Abrarali Dalal, Director and CEO, Sahyadri Group of Hospitals, Pune.

 

Hospitals are also integrating convenient features, such as billing desks on every inpatient floor to ease navigation. Recognising the time patients often spend waiting in outpatient areas, CK Birla has created comfortable, welcoming lounges with food services from partners like Barista, allowing patients to relax during long waits.

 

Sustainability is now a cornerstone of hospital infrastructure. The Indian Green Building Council has introduced a Green Healthcare Facility Rating Programme, with hospitals like Apollo Navi Mumbai and Kohinoor Hospital in Mumbai leading the way. These facilities incorporate features such as water-efficient systems, energy-optimised lighting, and non-toxic materials to reduce their environmental footprint.

 

“Green hospitals not only reduce water consumption by 60 per cent and energy costs by 40 per cent, but they also create healthier environments for patients, doctors, and visitors. Features like natural light, biophilic designs, and low-emission materials promote well-being while reducing operational costs,” said Anand Muthukrishnan, deputy executive director of the CII-Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre.

 

 

Cure by design

- Features like spacious rooms with natural light, soothing colour palettes, and healing gardens are gaining traction

  - Technologies such as automated systems and noise reduction techniques helps to enhance patient comfort and staff efficiency 

- Hospitals are also integrating convenient features, such as billing desks on every inpatient floor to ease navigation

  - Sustainability is now a cornerstone of hospital infrastructure