A future-forward design approach to a health clinic in Stockholm by Note Design Studio
Gone are the days of sterile clinics and GP surgeries – at least in cities such as Stockholm, where local multidisciplinary design studio Note has applied its contemporary touch to the Atrium Vårdcentral clinic for Neko Health, a health-tech company. The fit-out is a fine example of how spaces for those feeling vulnerable or unwell are just as deserving of a thoughtful design approach.
“We wanted to redefine both the look and the general mood of a typical clinic and to create a space that was warm, comforting and that could make patients feel safe and relaxed,” says Note’s co-founder Johannes Karlström.
The studio worked with a monochrome colour scheme to create a calm and professional atmosphere but with plenty of warm yet fresh colours to bring a touch of emotion and interest to the interiors. “The examination rooms follow the same colour scheme except for the blue ceilings that are believed to have a calming effect on the patients. The placement of the colour on the ceiling is due to the fact that you spend quite some time lying down and looking up during an examination,” says Karlström.
Since there are rules and regulations guiding the design of a healthcare space that potentially could be limiting to creative output, the studio decided to play around with this typology and materials typically found in clinical settings. This approach helped them to create the framing of the doors, for example, where the sturdy vinyl flooring is now both an interesting aesthetic detail and a visual guide to the doors for patients with impaired vision.
Note also included a few selected design pieces – such as the Toogood Roly Poly Chair and the Lolly side table from Hem. “In addition to these off-the-shelf designs we created bespoke upholstered oak benches and dividers adapted to the space, allowing for the right amount of seating while maintaining a proper flow,” explains Karlström. “Another bespoke addition is various types of lighting that is integrated in the space to give the notion of daylight.”
“Patients often describe a feeling of security and calm as soon as they step inside,” says Dr Andreea Valdman, Operations Manager at Neko Health. “Many highlight how the environment is different from traditional healthcare centres – it feels warm and welcoming. Several say that the thoughtful design reduces stress and anxiety. In this way the premises enhance the entire experience and reflect care that is safe, contemporary and of high quality.”
Image Courtesy of Note Design Studio
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