Though cleanliness and accessibility for patients and staff may be the top design priorities of healthcare spaces, aesthetics shouldn’t be left lacking. We’ve collected the latest furniture and finishes that aim to make a design statement while giving patients, visitors, and medical-care providers each their own space and keeping germs at bay.
Palisade, Nemschoff
Research shows that the presence of family members can expedite a patient’s healing process. As such, Nemschoff designed Palisade to keep loved ones in the patient room but out of the way of healthcare professionals. The furniture system combines seating, storage, illumination, work surfaces, and technology through such features as a sofa that pulls out into a bed and a portable table.
Collective Time, Shaw
The designers of Shaw’s Collective Time based the look of the carpet tile series on the data output from their personal activity monitors and the movement of natural light throughout the day. The result is three broadloom patterns that can be mixed and matched to provide a smooth visual transition through a space. The collection is made of the company’s Solution Q Extreme high-performance type-6 nylon fibers.
Penn Orthopaedics Chair, Thos. Moser
The Auburn, Maine–based furniture maker is partnering with the University of Pennsylvania to design an orthopedic chair with an exaggerated lumbar support, a deep seat, and arms that support users. A portion of the proceeds from the chair’s sale will go to the university’s Penn Center for Human Performance, which opens in August 2014 as a part of Penn’s University City medical campus in Philadelphia. Offered in cherry and walnut with optional upholstery (shown, left).
Valetudo, Pallas Textiles
Named after the Latin term for wellness, the Valetudo upholstery series joins Pallas’ Goes Not Matches collection of healthcare textiles and finishes. The collection comprises six contemporary patterns in a variety of complementary colorways. Terra (shown in aquamarine) is offered with a stain-resistant and antimicrobial wear layer and can be cleaned with bleach.
Jordan Active Patient Recliner, Krug
Krug streamlined the form of a typical patient chair for easier maneuverability and cleaning without sacrificing comfort. The Jordan Active Patient Recliner can be extended within a 25-degree range of the upright position and is offered in 21” and 24” widths. Standard features include a urethane arm cap in black, gray, and taupe, as well as casters and an integrated ottoman.
Rally, Weiland
The modular, configurable seating system Rally is available with four arm and leg options, including a tablet-style arm. The product’s 14 components lock with hidden metal fasteners. Thermoform tops are available for durability. The collection is Greenguard certified for low indoor emissions. Back heights of 31” and 35” are offered.
This article has been updated from its original publication to include new information.
