Transforming Healthcare Spaces

Key Takeaways from Our Latest Tonic Arts Network Event

We had a fantastic turnout for our June Tonic Arts Network Event, where we explored how art and design can transform healthcare environments. Thanks to everyone who signed up or attended!

If you couldn’t make it, don’t worry! Here’s a quick rundown of what we covered and some key takeaways.

Design Projects That Inspire

We invited designer, Stuart Smith-Gordon, to give us an exciting peek into the interior designs he has been working with us on for staff wellbeing spaces at St John’s Hospital and the East and Midlothian CAMHS units. He challenged us to rethink why hospitals often look the way they do, with their harsh surfaces, cold lighting, and bland, uniform furniture.

It was amazing to see the visual journey of these spaces. Stuart showed us how staff and users were actively involved in the design process, leading to complete transformations that meet the specific needs of those using them, all while adhering to strict infection control standards.

We can’t wait to share images and impact of the finished spaces with you.

Tools and Resources for Every Budget

For those smaller projects where it might not be possible to commission designers like Stuart, our Tonic Arts Manager, Susan Grant introduced two new resources currently in development. These tools are designed to empower staff to improve their spaces, even with very tight budgets.

The interior design and procurement guide is being created to support staff to pick up practical design knowledge from the Tonic Arts enhancements team and give quick access to NHS approved suppliers that have been tried and tested.

Complementing this is the Design Catalogue, an online library of surface illustrations and designs. During the demonstration, we saw a vibrant array of designs to choose from, with handy filters for mood, artist, user type, and more!

Keep an eye on your inbox, as these valuable resources are set to launch later this year!

Key Takeaways from the Session:

Warm and Welcoming Spaces: Both staff and patients at NHS Lothian want spaces that feel welcoming, warm, and supportive. Good design can absolutely help achieve this.
Options for All Budgets: You’ve got options for making changes, no matter your budget or design skill level. The new design resources will make this even more achievable.
Small Changes, Big Impact: Even small adjustments can make a huge difference! Think about changing the lighting, adding warm colours, or using colourful wall vinyls to transform a space.
Infection Control Isn’t a Barrier: Meeting infection control standards doesn’t have to stop you from designing beautiful spaces. There are some fantastic new materials and furniture styles available that can be used.

Useful Links

Stuart Smith-Gordon’s Presentation
Susan Grant’s Presentation

Upcoming Network Events:

Our next Tonic Arts Network Event is coming in late summer, and we’ll be sending out all the details soon. To make sure you don’t miss out on practical hints and tips, and inspiration on how you can use art and creativity to enhance health and wellbeing and transform healthcare spaces, be sure to join our staff network if you haven’t yet!