The Case for Nature or Nature-ish

Abstract

I'll never forget sitting in a doctor's office, waiting for a stressful appointment, and trying hard not to look at the dead plant in the corner. It was the antithesis of the reassuring, confidence-inspiring message that I needed. Good design can convey a strong positive message from the healthcare organization: "We care about you and your family; we care about our employees; we care about our community; and even (with some pioneering healthcare facilities) the planet." And bad design, or improper maintenance, can send the opposite message.