LIAG studies lead to new insights for lab and ICU design

ICU and laboratory housing show numerous similarities and offer room for improvement. This is evident from studies conducted by LIAG architects and building consultants in The Hague. The full circle architectural firm with its own building consultancy department focuses on "the happiness" of users and patients in livable and healthy buildings. Things can often be more compact, practical, efficient and safe in hospitals and educational institutions. With more attention to health and sustainability. In both types of spaces, this manifests itself in a smaller CO2 footprint.

Carina Nørregaard and Thomas Bögl of LIAG elaborate on the results of the studies. "What could an ICU and a laboratory look like in the future?" With that question, Nørregaard opens the conversation. The first outcome quickly crosses the table: "Put the researcher and the patient at the center. People's well-being leads to more efficiency in the lab workplace and a better healing process in the ICU." 

Laboratory research took place in close cooperation with AT Osborne. Central to this was the Researcher Centered Laboratory concept, aimed at optimally supporting the laboratory worker and the process. To arrive at usable outcomes, Nørregaard and Bögl consulted several universities and spoke with doctoral students about the laboratory of the future. "The physical environment is always focused on when the researcher is working in the lab. From that, the idea of a personalized plug-and-play container rolled out. That is placed at times when it is needed, when the lab is reserved. Think of it as a piece of furniture that gets plugged in. At other times, the container goes into storage. Needless to say, this is not only efficient, but also results in cost savings. Think of more output on the shop floor, thus higher efficiency. After all, you can work with multiple containers on demand. Cost savings in terms of energy is also a decisive aspect." 

According to Nørregaard and Bögl, LIAG's investigations into labs and ICs stem from the task of shaping the world differently. "We have to ensure that future generations can also live in this world." The research on the so-called IC box, conducted together with atelier PRO, focused on all user groups: from patients and visitors to employees. Interviews with ICU employees from several hospitals quickly revealed that a well-functioning ICU box is inextricably linked to the organization of the department and how the hospital works. Nørregaard: "It obviously requires an optimal design of the IC room. A good design can reduce stress, pain, anxiety and delirium." 

For the patients, the environment for treatment and recovery must be safe, with hygiene and prompt staff preparedness as the focal points. When visitors feel comfortable and can support the patient, it ensures mutual well-being. "Warm, personal," is Bögl's indication of what ICU furnishings should meet. "Being helped quickly, optimal contact with staff and clear sightlines at the front desk and in the ICU room where equipment should not be an obstacle." According to Nørregaard, Healing Environment plays an important role in this and this also manifests itself in increased dedication, health and well-being of the staff. 

Naturally, LIAG has also worked out models that can be anticipated. "A basic model with four IC boxes. A modular design so that each part of the four boxes can also be used separately. Think isolation during infections or during a pandemic such as COVID-19. "Compact and orderly due to short sight and walk lines and spaces for patients and family, as well as comfort for doctors and other staff," Nørregaard explains. "A design that reduces the risk of staff errors and leads to better care outcomes. After all, every second counts in an ICU." 

Bögl adds that aspects such as daylight, day and night rhythms, views of greenery, good acoustics and a low-stimulation environment are integrated into the "new thinking" in and around the ICU. All these aspects form the optimal conditions for patient recovery and staff well-being. According to Bögl, these include the flexible video wall: a wall on which personalized images, from landscapes to family snapshots, are projected. Facilities like that can also contribute to well-being and the healing process. 

LIAG, architects of happiness, is distinctive in several areas. The firm focuses on social real estate such as sports, education and healthcare. The well-being of the users and a better environment are always central to this.

LIAG conducted the research on the Laboratory of Tomorrow in collaboration with AT Osborne.

LIAG did the research on the ideal IC box in collaboration with atelier PRO as part of a tender process.