Project overview
Project Type: Sensory Environment
Location: Doha, Qatar
Client: Medical City Healthcare Facility
Sector: Healthcare
Primary Users: Patients, families and healthcare professionals
Introduction
Medical City in Qatar is a major healthcare facility designed to support a wide range of patient needs. As part of its commitment to improving patient wellbeing and accessibility, the organisation introduced a dedicated sensory environment within the facility.
The space was designed to provide a calm and supportive environment where patients and visitors can regulate sensory input, relax and take a break from the busy clinical environment.
By introducing this facility, Medical City has enhanced its ability to support patients who may experience anxiety, sensory sensitivities or emotional stress while receiving care.
The challenge
Healthcare environments can be challenging spaces for many patients. Bright lighting, clinical equipment, unfamiliar surroundings and the emotional stress associated with medical care can create significant sensory and emotional pressure.
For individuals with sensory sensitivities, anxiety or neurodevelopmental conditions, these environments can quickly become overwhelming.
Medical City wanted to create a dedicated environment where patients and visitors could step away from the clinical setting and experience a calm, controlled sensory space.
The challenge was to design a sensory environment that would support patient wellbeing while integrating seamlessly into the operational environment of a busy healthcare facility.
Client perspective
“This will be a great addition to Medical City. The sensory room is unique, and the IRIS technology and mobile access Experia provides is top quality.”
Eng. Mohammad Salaymeh, the Rehab Division Manager
The experia design approach
Experia worked with the healthcare team to design an environment that prioritises calm sensory regulation while remaining appropriate for a clinical setting.
The design approach focused on creating a space that contrasts with the busy hospital environment while remaining welcoming and easy for patients to use.
Key design considerations included:
• reducing sensory stimulation
• introducing calming visual and tactile elements
• creating comfortable spaces for relaxation
• ensuring the environment was accessible to patients of different ages and needs
The resulting environment provides a dedicated space where patients can relax and regulate sensory input within the healthcare setting.
Key sensory features
The sensory environment incorporates a range of carefully selected elements designed to create a calm and therapeutic atmosphere.
Features include:
• bubble tube lighting providing gentle visual movement
• fibre optic lighting creating calming colour transitions
• comfortable seating areas allowing patients to relax
• interactive sensory elements encouraging gentle engagement
These features allow patients and visitors to regulate sensory input in a controlled environment designed to support wellbeing.
Before and after transformation
Prior to the installation, the available space within the facility served a conventional function and did not provide a dedicated environment for sensory regulation.
Through careful design and installation, the area was transformed into a sensory environment that supports patients and visitors within the healthcare facility.
The installation demonstrates how sensory environments can be successfully integrated into clinical settings to enhance patient care.
How the space is used
Patients and visitors use the sensory environment as a space to relax and regulate sensory input during their time at the healthcare facility.
The environment is particularly valuable for patients who may experience anxiety, sensory sensitivity or emotional stress associated with medical treatment.
By providing a calm environment within the hospital, the space supports both patient wellbeing and the overall healthcare experience.
The outcome
The sensory environment at Medical City demonstrates how healthcare facilities can incorporate sensory design principles to support patient wellbeing.
By introducing a dedicated calm environment within the facility, Medical City has created a space that helps patients feel more comfortable and supported during their visit.
The project highlights the growing role of sensory environments in modern healthcare design.
The Experia perspective
“Healthcare environments can be stressful for many patients. Well-designed sensory environments provide a calm space where individuals can relax and regulate sensory input during their visit.”
Gareth Jones, Founder & CEO, Experia
Planning a sensory environment?
Experia designs and installs sensory environments for schools, healthcare organisations and public venues around the world.
If you are planning a sensory environment and would like expert advice, our team would be happy to help.
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Learn more about sensory environments
What Is a Sensory Room
Sensory Room Design Guide
Sensory Room Equipment Guide
Sensory Room Planning Guide
Sensory Room Cost Guide