Children’s hospitals are undergoing a design transformation, with architecture and construction professionals reimagining spaces that better support pediatric care in every sense—from mental health to family comfort and staff wellbeing. At the heart of this shift is a holistic approach often referred to as “Whole Child Design,” an evolving model that integrates healing environments, technology, and inclusivity to meet the diverse needs of young patients and their support systems.

“It just is,” said one provider, summing up the essence of why children’s healthcare demands unique design solutions. “Care for children is different than it is for adults.”

Recent efforts by the Children’s Hospital Association (CHA) underscore the urgency behind these changes. The organization has urged federal policymakers to address the pediatric mental health crisis, protect Medicaid, and expand workforce support. These calls to action are being mirrored by AEC firms across the country, as they help shape the next generation of pediatric care environments.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center reported that the region saw a 91% increase in children seeking emergency care for mental health between 2011 and 2017. This has led many designers to prioritize environments that cater to neurodiversity, emotional regulation, and behavioral health, while also supporting physical healing.

“Our ultimate goal is to create spaces that support children and their caregivers in coping with the stressors they face, ensuring a healing environment that works for everyone,” said Vince Avallone, Vice President and Medical Planning Leader at SmithGroup.

Key Trends Redefining Pediatric Hospital Design

1. Neurodiverse and Inclusive Environments
   Hospitals are focusing on sensory-friendly design elements to support both hyper- and hyposensitive patients. As Ali Summerford of Oculus explains, “Color and texture are very important in creating calming spaces.” Examples include Connecticut Children’s low-stimulation elevators and “Imagination Gardens” designed for palliative care families.
2. Optimized, Flexible Layouts
   Efficient workflows are being integrated to help staff provide care more quickly and with less fatigue. The Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU consolidates services into one location to foster collaboration and streamline patient journeys.
3. Enhanced Family Spaces
   Hospital design is increasingly accommodating family members with lounges, play areas, workspaces, and sleeping quarters.
   “This focus on family-centered care enhances the overall patient and family experience, promoting healing and well-being,” said Channing McLeod, Senior Principal at SmithGroup.
4. Market Growth Despite Demographic Shifts
   Despite falling birth rates, pediatric hospitals are seeing increased demand driven by more complex cases and higher expectations from families. “Although we may experience future decline in pediatric and birth hospitalizations, we expect some offsetting of volumes via increases in clinical complexity,” say DPR Construction experts.
5. Rise of AI and Advanced Tech
   Hospitals are equipping their facilities with electronic health records, automated dispensing systems, and even AI-driven mental health detection. Cincinnati Children’s is working with Oak Ridge National Laboratory to spot signs of clinical anxiety two months earlier than traditional methods—part of its ambitious plan to eliminate pediatric suicides by 2033.
6. Larger Patient Rooms
   The latest FGI Guidelines now require bigger rooms for ECMO treatment, and hospitals are responding with universal room sizes that can be adapted as needed.
   “This approach involves investing in the necessary infrastructure… to support higher acuity use from the outset,” said McLeod.
7. Biophilic and Sustainable Features
   Designs increasingly emphasize nature through daylight, materials, and indoor gardens. “Biophilic design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes a healthier and more productive environment,” said Hsiao Lin Hu of SmithGroup.
8. Behavioral Health Integration
   Avallone cited growing exposure to social pressures and trauma as key factors driving behavioral health visits. Cincinnati Children’s “Mind Brain Behavior Collaborative” aims to close care gaps with embedded psychologists, virtual training for providers, and AI diagnostics.
9. Sophisticated Yet Youthful Finishes
   Design is shifting away from overtly juvenile themes while still incorporating whimsical elements. “By creating spaces that cater to this broader age range, we can ensure that every pediatric patient feels comfortable,” said McLeod. Phoenix Children’s Hospital, for example, collaborated with artist Shara Hughes to create a 1,000-foot interactive mural titled Wonder and Wander.
10. Respite Rooms for Staff
    Amid staffing shortages and nurse burnout, even small relaxation areas are proving vital. “These spaces are critical to ensure providers have a safe environment to recharge during their long and stressful shifts,” said Summerford.

These trends reflect a broader shift in healthcare design philosophy—one that balances clinical function with emotional and mental support for all hospital users. Whether through immersive artwork, flexible spaces, or AI-supported diagnosis, today’s children’s hospitals are being designed to deliver not just treatment, but comfort, dignity, and hope.

At institutions like the Children’s Hospital of Richmond, project teams have accelerated schedules and innovated around tight constraints to ensure that children receive care in spaces that feel uplifting and human.

As one SmithGroup expert emphasized, “The children’s hospital of the future will not only treat illness but promote whole-child wellbeing across every touchpoint—from design to delivery.”

Originally reported by Quinn Purcell in BDC Network.