Phoenix Children's Hospital
Phoenix Children's Hospital
Phoenix, USA
About the Project
Phoenix Children’s Hospital treats about 70,000 kids annually in Arizona. So when the hospital’s advisory board started discussing what improvements could be made to make the building more welcoming for children, they thought it was important to ask their young patients for input.
Design Goals
One piece of feedback was about a particular hallway that David Lenhardt, chairman of the hospital’s advisory board, described as “the main artery of this hospital.” Almost every patient in the hospital travels through this corridor at some point during their stay, and originally it was long, windowless, and plain beige. For kids on their way to surgery and other procedures, being wheeled on a gurney down this bleak hall tended to increase their anxiety instead of easing it. This particular hallway, along with several others, needed a makeover. And so, the project became, as Lenhardt defined it, “all about the transformative power of art to heal children.”
Solution
The walls needed two things: cosmetic improvements and durable protection against bumps, scratches, and daily wear and tear. Acrovyn by Design® wall covering was the answer for both. “[The hospital] went with Acrovyn so that it could be cleaned and it was extremely durable,” said Liz Watzlavik, project manager at DPR Construction. To brighten one hallway, the hospital tapped contemporary artist Shara Hughes, who set out drawing on more than 60 sheets of paper to create the story told by this mural. Hughes opted for crayons, markers, and watercolors because those are the mediums kids would use, and it helps the artwork feel more accessible to youngsters.
Other walls within the hospital also feature Acrovyn by Design, showcasing large, high-resolution images of brightly colored flowers. Our wall coverings not only enhance the visual appeal of the space but also contribute to the durability of the interior, particularly in high-traffic areas. By partnering with CS, Phoenix Children’s Hospital has created a more sustainable and resilient environment, all while elevating the design and reinforcing our commitment to advancing the healthcare market.
