Research
Project summary
A research-led healthcare interior developed to explore how spatial planning and environmental design can support patient comfort within a diagnostic clinic. The proposal translates findings on patient experience into a warmer, less institutional environment through intuitive circulation, biophilic elements, natural materiality, integrated waiting spaces and carefully planned clinical functions.
Framework
Environmental Comfort Theory provided the framework for examining how spatial and environmental conditions influence physical, functional and psychological comfort.
Qualitatively dominant mixed-methods approach · site observation · semi-structured interviews · descriptive survey of clinic users
Research → design criteria
Functional comfort
- Cramped extraction areas
- Unclear destinations and circulation
- Limited waiting capacity
Clear flow
Intuitive sequencing, visible destinations and improved patient and staff circulation.
Physical comfort
- Heat and glare from sunlight
- Uneven thermal conditions
- Ventilation and acoustic concerns
Environmental balance
Controlled daylight, thermal regulation and improved indoor environmental quality.
Psychological comfort
- Anxiety before procedures
- Clinical, intimidating atmosphere
- Need for calm, privacy and nature
Emotional reassurance
Warm materiality, biophilic cues, privacy and a less institutional atmosphere.
Clinical planning
The three-zone proposal, drawn from the research criteria.
Waiting
Existing condition
Proposed
Reception and waiting establish orientation before any clinical step.
Extraction
Existing condition
Proposed
Extraction and support are replanned around staff workflow.
Authorship
Gvian — Researcher · Designer
- Research design and fieldwork
- Programming and criteria
- Space planning
- Interior design and custom millwork
- Visualization
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde
- Academic supervision
An academic redesign of the same site as project 01, MaxiMD. It is a proposal, and it was not built.
Next project
08 · Furniture design · 2024
Equanimity
Table · exhibited