Healthcare Design - August 2017 - 27

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TA K E 5

S C O T T R AW L I N G S

The director of healthcare and leader of HOK's regional
healthcare practice in Washington, D.C., discusses the top five
trends and issues getting his attention right now
1 . T E A C H I N G C R E AT I V I T Y

Many people have great ideas but just don't know how to develop them. As
designers, we can help our clients and future users of a space tap into their
imaginations. Creativity happens when we bring a wide range of designers,
facility users, and stakeholders to the table and engage them in lively
conversations. This open, relaxed dialogue enables the design team to move
beyond discussing standard workflow data and explore truly innovative
ideas.
2. TECHNOLOGY'S INFLUENCE

Healthcare buildings aren't just becoming more complex; they're also
becoming much smarter, using sophisticated technology. Architects and
engineers need to think outside the box by partnering with specialized tech
firms that can help us integrate advanced information management, data
usage, and communications technologies to design the hospitals of the
future. These new partners can help lead visioning charrettes with clients
and ensure that we're designing for flexibility to accommodate emerging
technologies.
3. HEALTHIER BUILDINGS

The healthcare industry is quickly moving past conventional approaches
to sustainability and the LEED rating system. Our clients expect data-driven
design strategies and a more scientific, performance-based approach to
environmental issues. Designers need to consider both the buildings and the
people who occupy them. Our underlying concepts for the building design
should facilitate productivity and wellness. The WELL Building Standard
allows us to focus on real data and measurable outcomes on people's health
and well-being.
4. LONG-TERM VIABILITY AND MODULARITY

Avoiding obsolescence is one of the most important goals for new healthcare
buildings. With the rising costs of healthcare and the impact on our
society and economy, we can do our part to create a better healthcare
system by designing buildings that remain viable well into the future. New
manufacturing technologies are enabling us to focus on modularity. These
modular systems provide efficiencies and substantial cost savings for new
construction and future renovations. And, if planned correctly, this modularity
can help staff work more efficiently across platforms in highly flexible spaces.
5 . C R E A T I N G VA L U E

Healthcare design has historically followed an inside-out approach, with
operational planning serving as the foundation for successful projects. In
recent years, though, more clients have begun to appreciate the value of
great design. They understand that a well-designed healthcare facility leads
to better patient outcomes, enhances community pride, provides healthier
environments, and helps them recruit and retain the best people. The tools
and data now available to healthcare designers enable us to create real
value within specific budget parameters. We succeed when our design
solutions respond to each client's specific challenges and aspirations.

AUGUST 2017

27
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Healthcare Design - August 2017

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