Design has the power to do more than shape spaces; it can create environments that enhance the lives of those who experience them. People are deeply impacted by the built environment, and as the creators behind these spaces, designers carry a responsibility to prioritize mental health in every project, regardless of size, program, or purpose. Mental well-being must be a fundamental design consideration as spaces can either increase stress and isolation or foster calm, connection and resilience.
Wold Architects and Engineers (Minneapolis) recently released results from its State of Community Facility Design survey, conducted by Wakefield Research in December 2024. The survey examined how 1,000 U.S. adults spanning multiple generations and locations view the design of public spaces and its influence on their mental health, well-being and overall quality of life.
State of Community Facility Design survey results
Results revealed that 86 percent of respondents believe that mental health and wellness should be prioritized in the design of community and healthcare buildings. This sentiment was even stronger in younger generations, with 91 percent of Gen Z and millennial survey participants advocating for greater mental health consideration in the design process.
Additionally, 90 percent of respondents shared they want community buildings that integrate health, well-being and functionality, emphasizing that wellness should be central to design planning rather than an afterthought.
These findings underscore a powerful shift: design is no longer just about aesthetics or functionality. It’s about creating environments that actively promote well-being.
To help project teams integrate mental health and wellness into healthcare environments, both now and in the future, here are three strategies that offer practical design principles.
Acoustic design for patient and care team well-being
About 42 percent of survey respondents reported that they want buildings that help reduce anxiety. Noise, especially in patient rooms and emergency areas, was identified as a major stressor, underscoring the need for design strategies that create calmer, more supportive healthcare environments.
To mitigate this, designers should focus on creating acoustically optimized environments that reduce stress and improve focus. Strategies include soundproofing patient rooms; implementing noise-reducing materials such as acoustic panels or even hanging baffles in corridors; adding designated quiet zones; and considering onstage/offstage design to separate noisy, high-traffic areas from more serene spaces.
For example, a medical facility might incorporate soundproofing in waiting areas to reduce stress, allowing patients and visitors to feel at ease while waiting for appointments.
Respite areas to promote patient, staff wellness
In stressful healthcare environments, creating designated areas of respite can greatly support the well-being of both patients and care teams, while also increasing staff retention. These spaces, often called sensory or respite rooms, offer a quiet retreat where individuals can step away from the intense energy of medical settings and recharge physically and mentally.
Integrating calming features such as soft lighting, comfortable seating, and nature-inspired elements can make these spaces more effective in reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
By prioritizing respite areas throughout waiting rooms, staff lounges, and family spaces, healthcare facilities can support recovery, reduce anxiety and burnout, and improve overall satisfaction for both patients and care teams, ultimately contributing to a healthier, more restorative environment.
Using homelike environments to ease anxiety in healthcare environments
Thoughtfully designed healthcare spaces that feel less institutional and more homelike can ease anxiety, reduce stress, and promote emotional well-being during pivotal life moments such as childbirth.
Incorporating warm wood tones, natural materials, softer lighting, residential-style furniture, and soothing colors such as blues and greens can make these areas feel familiar and comforting.
This approach helps humanize clinical spaces, creating environments that support the mental and emotional needs of patients and families. By designing rooms that reflect the warmth and comfort of home, without compromising clinical function, healthcare facilities can foster a deeper sense of safety, connection, and dignity for all who enter.
Strategies for mental health integration in care environments
As the demand for environments that promote holistic well-being grows, the design of healthcare spaces must evolve to include elements that support mental, emotional, and social wellness.
Continued research into this topic and increased focus on design elements that support these needs will help ensure the healthcare design sector can support facilities in meeting the needs of patients, families, and staff.
Josh Ripplinger is a healthcare practice leader at Wold Architects and Engineers (Minneapolis) and can be reached at [email protected].
