Each floor will have its own colour to help orient patients and visitors in the new hospital. Level 3’s predominant colour will be teal/light blue.
Colours can play a vital role in helping people navigate their surroundings. In the new hospital, each level will have its own distinct, accent colour to help patients and visitors locate their destinations.
“The new hospital will be about two-and-a-half times larger than the current Main Building, so it’s important to help orient people to the new space,” says Shelley Ditty, Vice-President of Campus Development and Support Services. “Colour association is strong, effective and memorable for patients, visitors and staff.
In our wayfinding strategy – which is the process of guiding people from place to place – colour, signage, landmarks and the naming of spaces together will help people find their way to where they need to go.”
Colour Influence
One of West Park’s design objective for the new building is to have a “strong connection to nature.” There is strong research and literature that nature provides a calming environment, which contributes to West Park’s goal of creating a positive patient, family and staff experience.
Taking its cue from nature, the interior design team at CannonDesign – a global architectural firm that worked in conjunction with Montgomery Sisam Architects to design the new hospital – was inspired by colours that could be found in the Canadian landscape and in particular the Humber River ravine, which West Park’s campus is situated next to. Colours from the trees, river, valley, flowers, wildlife and seasonal changes offer an array of subtle to vibrant hues, tints, tones and shades.
Colour psychology also played a factor when selecting and designating colours for each floor. With emotional feelings often associated to specific colours, thoughtful consideration was given to each floor and its respective unit or service.
The designated accent floor colours will also influence the décor. There will be variations of the hue in the furniture and nature-themed wall graphics throughout the level.
“Colours are like art. They are subjective,” says Ditty. “Everyone has their preferred colours and not everyone has to like every colour. If you’re hesitant, I would say give the colour a chance…it might grow on you.”
Colours for Each Level
Below are the accented colour for each floor that will be seen in the inpatient block. Similar colours will be used in the outpatient block.
The actual wall paint may vary from the images below as every monitor and device display colours differently.
LEVEL 1 - DARK BLUE
Emotions: