HEALTHCARE ART CONSULTING
To create a world-class facility using evidence-based design. "The new space will allow us to meet growing needs and continue to offer the medical quality and fivestar service for which The Heart Hospital – Baylor Plano has become known.” – Mark Valentine, CEO
The increase in demand for quality medical care services allowed Baylor Scott & White - The Heart Hospital to add a new tower. The new facility includes 28 private outpatient beds (along with shell space for bed expansion), more robotic surgery technology, a dedicated suite for medical research, an education suite including a bio-skills lab, several education rooms, and a 200-seat auditorium. The new north tower encompasses 164,765 square feet.
The new tower had two different audiences: The patients and family members who will be receiving care and the world-renowned doctors, researchers, and community leaders who will use the facility for conferences and continuing education. Also, the hospital was going through a rebranding, from The Heart Hospital – Baylor Plano to Baylor Scott & White - The Heart Hospital.
Healthcare Art Consulting wanted to select and place artwork that would take advantage of the abundance of natural light found throughout the facility. Submissions in response to the “call to artists” were reviewed to narrow the selection of artwork that had a premier look but at the same time factored in nature-based elements. Media of glass and metals were incorporated that promoted a natural source of energy. When natural light is transmitted through glass, it enhances the effects of color and brings a feeling of nature inside. Light also helps control the body’s circadian system, affecting both mood and perception, (Boyce, Hunter, & Howlett, 2003; Edwards & Torcellini, 2002), making it a popular choice for use in healthcare environments.
The richness of the art placed in the new tower appeals to both audiences, giving the hospital a five-star look. To address the change in the facility name, Healthcare Art Consulting incorporated the prior logo of the red heart as part of the signage and artwork, paying homage to the continued legacy of Baylor Scott & White, The Heart Hospital – Plano. Interviews with hospital staff and Plano community leaders were conducted to help create a history wall that begins in the year 1841 and will be constantly updated with accolades and videos.
The hospital opened the new tower in June 2018. The administration staff will be monitoring patient satisfaction scores on a regular basis.