On display at the recent IIDEX/NeoCon Canada expo and conference in Toronto was a 37-square-metre patient room - built using eco-friendly materials.Brainchild of U.S. architectural firm Anshen and Allen, the goal for the 'Green Patient Room' was to create a space that would have a minimum of impact on the natural environment, whilst fulfilling a patient's need for a safe and comfortable environment.
Though I suspect generating less waste is the last thing one is thinking about while lying in a hospital bed, it surprised me that no one has gone here before - it's genius.
So what's green about this room?
-products comprised of recycled materials, including the porcelain flooring in the bathroom, the polyester chair and ottoman, and paper items
-energy-efficient LED lighting and faucets geared toward promoting water conservation
-modular cabinets, composed of standard units that are easily put together and rearranged, allowing for cleaner installation and less scrap
The space even incorporates a zone for families, designed to encourage frequent and longer visits, including a sofa bed made of lumber from responsibly managed forests and without chlorofluorocarbons.
While the room at the expo wasn't designed as a prototype, the architects wanted the space to be one individuals could use to visualize greening their own health-care facilities...a positive step toward healing patients AND the environment.
Source: Globe and Mail>>
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