• Headspace: Creating a Happier Hospital

As the strong connection between happiness and wellbeing and good physical and mental health is being increasingly recognised the emotional strain of hospital environments is calling to be addressed. ********* Hospital is a large teaching hospital in ******, Scotland that is internationally renowned for its innovative research projects. Whilst life-changing work is carried out in the building on a day-to-day basis, the hospital environment remains an unpleasant prospect for many whether attending as a patient, as a member of staff or as a visitor. In order to support happiness and wellbeing it is essential the hospital building reflects the amazing work going on within.

With the backing of NHS surgeon Rodney Mountain, Headspace re-imagines and re-purposes a series of rooftop and courtyard spaces that exist throughout the hospital to encourage users to take time out from the clinical environment, to connect with nature and thereby boost personal happiness and wellbeing.

The designs aim to introduce accessible nature into the hospital environment with details reflecting the patterns of the sun from the site throughout summer and winter. With influence from the Biophilic Theory of Prospect & Refuge, each space references the Scottish Bothy within three different areas of nature, connecting the hospital with the city of ****** and surrounding environments.

Headspace highlights the importance of personal happiness and wellbeing for all round good physical and mental health whilst making sure spending time in nature is a realistic goal for all.