Humanizing Behavioral Health Facilities: 9 Concepts Of Great Indoor Design

Although it may seem counterintuitive, floor plans and designs have a psychologically proven effect on productivity and well-being. In a behavioral health facility setting, an open floor plan becomes vital to a patient’s recovery. Here are nine concepts to create a spectacular indoor design to help patients get back on their feet.

1) Art Makes A Friendly Atmosphere

Who said furniture can’t be art? Mental Health Seating can go a long way in a patient’s recovery when attractive furniture that is both comfortable and durable is chosen.

2) Plenty Of Windows For Natural Light

If your facility cannot install floor-to-ceiling windows because it’s an issue of security or renovation costs, there are other options available. It’s possible to install color-calibrated artificial lighting to improve patients’ moods and treat seasonal affective disorder.

3) Open Floor Plans Increase Usable Space

Have you ever felt trapped in a room? Or maybe just noticed that some spaces were more conducive to work in than others? Perhaps the room had little natural lightening or felt claustrophobic because there was too much furniture. Ensuring one room flows effortlessly to the next will help ease anxious feelings and allow the staff to keep an eye on their patients.

4) An Environment Free From Danger

In a behavioral health facility, patient safety is the utmost priority. That means rounding sharp corners and removing potentially dangerous objects such as pencils and pens, plastic trash bags, and any soap or lotions.

5) Common Areas and Single Bedrooms

There should be single and shared bedroom options. No two patients are alike, nor are their treatments. One patient might benefit from more privacy while another would benefit from having a roommate. Making sure there is enough space to accommodate patient needs will be critical in creating a great indoor design.

6) A Mixture Of Different Textures

For tactile patients, texture can soothe and restore, acting as a treatment in and of itself. Using a variety of textures is often a natural byproduct of choosing furniture, flooring, and artwork to decorate the indoor spaces. You should still use soft colors and comfortable materials to maximize feelings of serenity and peace.

7) Soft Furnishings That Absorb Excess Noise

No one likes the clinical feeling of a doctor’s office. Speckled floor tiles, boring artwork, and lack of color not only lend the space a chilly atmosphere, but the environment is often loud and echoing. An in-treatment facility should feel as close to home as possible with soft furnishings, warm colors, and some peace and quiet.

8) An Outdoor Space With Plenty of Nature

Depression is the common cold of mental health disorders and is one of the most prevalent reasons a patient checks into a behavioral health facility. Luckily, there are some easy-to-implement, natural treatments that benefit patients with mood disorders. Making sure nature, sunlight, and greenery are accessible to patients will make a world of difference.

9) Easy Access To Technology

An accessible online portal will make it easier for patients to schedule appointments and communicate privately with their doctors. Computer games and virtual reality have also recently been adapted as therapy tools.

Before You Go

No patient wants to be admitted to an in-patient or even out-patient facility, but coming up with a fantastic interior design will make their time there more comfortable and productive. Hopefully, they’ll one day be able to look back on their time there with nostalgia, remembering a homey atmosphere and friendly staff all working together to provide the best care possible.