Journey to Fun: Transforming Hospital Navigation

Seevinck Baade Miller Seear Douglas's Playful Wayfinding Design

The Queensland Children's Hospital has embraced a novel approach to alleviate the stress associated with healthcare environments. The design team, led by Jen Seevinck, has ingeniously integrated elements of play into the hospital's wayfinding system. This initiative, titled "Journey To Fun," is not merely a directional aid but a beacon of joy, transforming the mundane into the extraordinary. The team's commitment to enhancing the hospital's Entertainment Precinct has culminated in a space that distracts from illness and fosters a positive atmosphere for families.

Inspired by the natural world and children's games, the design concept harmonizes with the hospital's 'living tree' architecture and parrot sculptures. The team's biophilic approach has led to the creation of nature-themed placemaking at strategic entry points, resonating with both the young and the young at heart. The playful parrot characters, each representing a different service, guide visitors with their colorful feather trails, reminiscent of Hopscotch, inviting active participation and exploration.

The design's uniqueness lies in its coalescence of play with practical wayfinding. The team's interdisciplinary and co-design methodology, involving hospital stakeholders, has been pivotal in realizing a system that is both functional and delightful. The visual narrative is not only aesthetically pleasing but also complements the existing architectural and environmental elements, ensuring a cohesive and immersive experience.

Technologically, the project is a testament to the seamless integration of digital and physical design tools. From Photoshop collages to Procreate illustrations, the design journey involved meticulous planning and execution. The result is an extensive visual display covering walls and floors, with animated elements adding a dynamic layer to the static environment. The design's technical specifications are impressive, with 226 square meters of wall design and 270 square meters of floor decals, all contributing to a navigational system that is as informative as it is engaging.

Since its inception in October 2020, the project has made a significant impact on the Queensland Children's Hospital, enhancing its identity and improving patient experience. The design's effectiveness is evident in the positive feedback from hospital visitors, with reports of increased engagement and ease of navigation. The "Journey To Fun" stands as a testament to the power of design in transforming healthcare environments into spaces of healing and happiness.

Overcoming creative and technical challenges, the design team has set a new benchmark for health-related environmental graphics. The playful elements not only adhere to health and safety standards but also introduce a level of interactivity that encourages physical movement. The parrot characters, peeking over doorways, add a touch of whimsy, further enriching the patient experience. This project not only serves its immediate purpose but also contributes to the broader discourse on design's role in healthcare, offering insights and inspiration for future endeavors.

Seevinck Baade Miller Seear Douglas's "Journey To Fun" has been recognized with the prestigious Iron A' Design Award, a testament to the project's innovation, practicality, and positive contribution to the world of design. This accolade underscores the team's dedication to creating designs that not only meet professional standards but also touch lives, making the world a better place one step at a time.