Visiting the doctor isn’t typically something that children enjoy, but the revamped play areas at M Health Fairview Lakes Medical Center make the inevitable doctor visit so much better. The existing play areas were 20+ years old and needed an imaginative refresh. BDH designed three play areas comprised of hand-painted murals, fun furniture and games, and a child-size cabin for interactive play.
The play areas divert the children’s attention from their ailments to their imagination. As children hop on the ground like frogs they quickly forget about their aches and pains and enter a place of comfort and playfulness. They are exhilarated with creativity as they crawl in and out of the miniature cabin inspired by the whimsicality of Dr. Seuss. The outdoor landscapes featured in the murals are reflective of the Minnesotan culture and resonate with the patients. The elements of nature in the murals derive an emotional connection in patients and contribute to stress reduction and pain management. Ultimately, the imaginative and creative play structures combined with the biophilic design elements truly transform the healing experience of the patients receiving care at M Health Fairview Lakes Medical Center.
