As innovations in the medical field make their way from theory to practice, the architecture of healthcare facilities often follows suit. The idea that access to nature improves patient health isn't new: In the 19th century, asylums often reflected a V-shaped footprint based on the now-debunked theories of psychiatrist Thomas Story Kirkbride—who argued that the shape would allow all the wings to get fresh air and light, part of his "morality" cure for mental illness. Finnish architect Alvar Aalto incorporated numerous balconies and loads of windows into the iconic Paimio Sanatorium, since fresh air and sunlight were considered essential for curing tuberculosis. In the 1970s, Danish artist Poul Gernes festooned Copenhagen's Herlev Hospital with vibrant colors since the doctors believed a "nice" environment would help speed patient recovery.
The Best New Healthcare Design Borrows An Old Healing Technique: Plants