How architecture can improve life quality of hospitalized children

How can architecture transform the experience of healthcare for children? Can design elements like colors, materials, shapes, and daylight even help improve the young patients’ lives? 

Denmark is about to get its first purpose-built children’s hospital, Børneriget, which is scheduled to open in 2026 in central Copenhagen. Børneriget aims to redefine pediatric healthcare with its unique "finger plan" layout, focusing on creating a welcoming and safe environment through thoughtful design. But how can these elements enhance patient well-being and improve the hospital experience? 

In this episode of Let's Talk Architecture, host Michael Booth explores the design of Børneriget with lead architect, Stig Gothelf, senior partner at 3XN, and My Lunsjö, Associate and Behavioral Specialist at sister company GXN. 

Together they dive into the research behind their design choices, discussing how aspects like color schemes and views of nature are intended to reduce stress and support healing.  

Let's Talk Architecture is a podcast by the Danish Architecture Center, with sound edits by Munck Studios.