Reception areas and waiting room, in particular, convey the image of the entire hospital. In the waiting areas people may be tense, anxious or in pain. The lighting can help provide a calming environment, as well as a feeling of cleanliness and hygiene to instill trust. Above all the lighting solutions for circulation areas and waiting rooms should be designed around the patient. General lighting should be more indirect than direct and be reflected off ceilings and walls. Dimmable wall lighting and free-standing or table luminaires will radiate a relaxing ‘homelike’ ambience. Where architecturally feasible, dynamic daylighting systems provide a positive connection to the outside world.
There are many other non clinical support areas in a healthcare facility, each with their own lighting design needs.
These include:
- Architectural exteriors and signage
- Parking lots and garages
- Entrance lobbies and circulation areas
- Staff offices
- Retail shops
- Cafeterias
- Kitchens
- Storage rooms
- Stairwells