Insights & Solutions

In the ongoing battle to reduce noise in hospital patient units, much attention has been paid to the floor and the ceiling. Over the years, several case studies have shown that sound-absorbing ceiling tile and carpet can help significantly reduce excess noise on a unit. But what about the walls?

The issue of excessive noise in healthcare facilities is indeed complicated. Patients need a calm, peaceful environment in which to heal, and loud noises certainly are at odds with that concept. While architectural and design choices can be made to lower the general noise level -- high-performance sound-absorbing materials in floors, ceilings, and walls are examples -- perhaps the most important and effective step a healthcare organization can take is to create a “culture of quiet” among its staff on all levels.

For many years, carpet was considered a no-no for use in most hospital settings beyond waiting areas. The most oft-cited reason was cleanability, as well as a perceived added difficulty for caregivers pushing carts and other wheeled equipment.

However, with the growing awareness of the noise issue in hospitals—including the potential financial repercussions, based on the HCAHPS system and the reimbursements tied to it—carpet is getting a second look in some facilities looking to decrease overall noise levels.

Shepley, M. M., Pasha, S., Ferguson, P., Huffcut, J. C., Kiyokawa, G., & Martere, J. (2013). Design research and behavioral health facilities. The Center for Health Design.

KASIAN ARCHITECTURE INTERIOR DESIGN & PLANNING LTD.  Firm's role on the project: Prime Consultant, Architect of Record, Interior Design     About the Project

A set of project drivers act as a tool to facilitate the design team’s comprehension of the main criteria for the project. The drivers for South Health Campus seek to:

The UW Hospital and Clinics Authority is a progressive client, especially in developing state of the art, community based cancer services as well as the latest cancer research and technology. Zimmerman Architectural Studios has completed a Radiotherapy Center, a full service, community based ambulatory care facility, a consolidation of the University Sports Medicine Center and is currently completing a large translational and interdisciplinary research facility for UW.