ABOUT HILLINGDON PAEDIATRIC A&E

The newly refurbished Paediatric A&E Department at Hillingdon Hospital marks a significant milestone in the Hillingdon Hospital Foundation NHS Trust's strategic plan to modernise and enhance the delivery of emergency services for paediatric patients. Recognising that the previous model of emergency care was becoming outdated and less efficient in addressing current needs, this renovation was essential to provide a higher standard of care. The new layout of the department was meticulously planned to accommodate an increased number of bed spaces, ensuring that children receive timely, specialised treatment tailored to their specific medical needs. By optimising the space and eliminating redundancies, the department now supports a smoother workflow, enabling dedicated staff to operate with improved precision and effectiveness.

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A key element of this transformation was the collaborative approach taken during the planning and design phases. Through a series of interactive consultation meetings, involving clinical staff and service users—including patients and their families—valuable insights were gathered that informed the final design. These discussions were instrumental in shaping not only the physical space but also the overall experience of those who would use it. From these consultations, a distinctive interior wayfinding strategy and a complementary arts program were developed, which together have redefined the department’s atmosphere.

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The wayfinding strategy is an innovative feature that goes beyond simple navigation; it encompasses a holistic approach to reduce stress and promote comfort. This strategy makes use of carefully considered elements such as lighting, spatial layout, materials, and the application of color and artwork throughout the department. The result is a warm and welcoming environment, specifically designed to alleviate anxiety for young patients and their caregivers during what is often a challenging and distressing time.

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Central to the design concept is the inspiration drawn from an urban study of the Borough of Hillingdon’s rich biodiversity and award-winning parkland. The creative team envisioned the interior design and accompanying artwork through the eyes of a young person, infusing a sense of wonder and familiarity into the space. This approach led to the development of a map-themed feature, which is showcased as a vinyl wall covering in the reception waiting area. The map provides a captivating visual representation of the borough, portraying Hillingdon Hospital within the context of its surrounding environment.

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The illustrations on the map depict key elements of the borough, including parklands, waterways, and significant urban landmarks. Notable among these is the Hillingdon Trail, a historical nature path that dates back over 200 years and meanders through the borough, connecting various green spaces and points of interest. This thematic artwork not only serves as an engaging focal point but also fosters a sense of connection and comfort by reminding patients and families of the broader community beyond the hospital walls.

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By weaving together elements of local geography and heritage, the refurbished Paediatric A&E Department embodies a thoughtful design that extends beyond mere functionality. It becomes a space where children and families feel a part of the community, supported by an environment that is both caring and familiar. This integration of art, nature, and design creates a unique space that addresses both the clinical and emotional needs of young patients, reinforcing the hospital’s commitment to holistic, patient-centred care.