Strides made in healthcare flooring materials offer greater design options

While durability and infection control are still vital considerations, aesthetics has become more important as healthcare facilities seek warmer, more inviting looks for floors.

By Healthcare Facilities Today


Visitors’ expectations that a hospital shouldn’t look like a hospital are more often influencing flooring choices. 

The May-June issue of Healthcare Design reports that healthcare facilities are seeking warmer, more inviting looks for floors, something that might call to mind a hotel or home. While durability and infection control are still vital, aesthetics has become an equal consideration. 

According to the article, Terrazzo is a popular choice for public spaces because it’s easily maintained and has plenty of options for color and incorporating other decorations or designs. Carpet, of course, will instantly warm up any public area, but is not recommended in treatment areas because of problems with staining and cleaning. Rubber is popular with staff because of its softness underfoot, and it lends itself well to infection control. 

However, “there’s still a lot of perception that shiny equals clean,” says Jennifer Mango, an interior designer in Massachusetts, according to the article. Floors that require waxing are losing popularity, due to concerns about indoor air quality, but plenty of other options are available. Even some rubber surfaces can now be buffed to remove their traditional dull look, and manufacturers have developed higher-gloss options for linoleum and terrazzo, the article says. 

Designers have also realized that flooring has a role to play in wayfinding. If a receptionist can simply say, “Follow the yellow pattern on the floor,” that creates an easier solution for everyone than myriad signs.

To control costs, designers suggest using a less expensive material of similar appearance in staff-only areas, and being aware of a product’s total lifecycle cost when care and maintenance are taken into account, according to the article. 

Read the full article. 

 



June 28, 2013


Topic Area: Interior Design


Recent Posts

Streamlined Integrated Project Delivery Tackles Design Challenges

Successful implementation of IPD Light can improve patient care, project outcomes and bottom lines.


Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Central Florida - Sumter County Opens

It is a satellite location of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Central Florida.


Rudolph and Sletten Awarded $960M for New UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital

Construction work is expected to commence in September 2025 with substantial completion anticipated in 2031.


How Designers Create Welcoming Senior Care Communities

Risk assessments and cost analysis play a role in creating thriving communities.


Data-Driven Decisions: How Analytics Are Shaping Healthcare Facility Planning

Hospitals can use data to prioritize upgrades, extend building lifespans and maximize the impact of limited capital budgets.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.