Major health care organization wants to create an environment in their pediatric clinic waiting roo

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A major health care organization wants to create an environment in their pediatric clinic waiting rooms that is comfortable, unintimidating and an interesting/engaging space for children. The client wants the lighting to provide an appropriate level of light for reading and filling out forms for the parents, but also to feel playful for the children. The space should not seem scary or sterile. Design a ceiling or wall mounted light fixture for this environment that supports the clients program as well as providing general ambient light for the area. The fixture will be used in non-emergency pediatric clinics in major cities across the United States. The architecture is up to you. The ceiling is 10 high. Other than the check-in desk, the furniture in the waiting room is flexible/movable. The project team is pursuing a LEED Gold rating.

Take into consideration the quality of light, energy use, and maintenance of the fixture. Consider how the light from the fixture will make the room feel. How does the light fixture meet the requirements of the program and express the personality of the space? Identify all major components and materials of the fixture. Document the fixture as instructed under the Competition Rules.

Building and Programmatic Conditions

Space: 70′-6″ x 70′-6′ approx. 5000 SF
Immediate access to parking
immediate access to outdoor space
a minimum of two entries
maximum 15′-0″ ceilings with a program requirement of 10′-0″
Reception approx 300 SF
Waiting Spaces (3) approx 500-1000 SF each
30% circulation
Competition Deliverables

dimensioned plan,
section of the light fixture identifying materials,
a perspective sketch (digital) or rendering of the product,
and a perspective sketch (digital) of the product in use.
An optional candlepower distribution curve, without values, may be included to illustrate an understanding of the light distribution.
Graphic illustrations may be drawn by hand or computer rendered.
Include a maximum 250 word description of the products and their use.
Materials not submitted in this format may be disqualified.

Course Deliverables

Will be presented and discussed in future class sessions

Rubric

Will be presented and discussed in future class sessions

Innovative character of the overall design
Innovative and sustainable use of materials
Breadth of practical application
Practicality of manufacturing
Aesthetics
Ease of use and maintenance
Light distribution and visual comfort
Energy efficiency

Sample Solution

Playful Planet: A Pediatric Clinic Light Fixture

This proposal details the “Playful Planet” light fixture, designed for pediatric clinic waiting rooms. It meets the client’s program requirements for a comfortable, engaging space while providing functional lighting for adults.

Concept:

The Playful Planet is a suspended, circular fixture inspired by a celestial mobile. It incorporates a variety of playful elements to engage children while offering a warm, inviting atmosphere for adults.

Components and Materials:

  • Fixture Frame: A lightweight, circular aluminum frame (diameter: 6ft) suspends the light elements. Aluminum is chosen for its durability, recyclability (supporting LEED goals), and ease of maintenance.
  • Cloud Panels: Three cloud-shaped, dimmable LED panels (diameter: 2ft) made from durable, fire-retardant fabric stretched over lightweight bamboo frames. The fabric diffuses light softly, creating a warm, inviting glow.
  • Star Accents: Fiber optic strands with twinkling LED lights (adjustable for intensity) are woven throughout the cloud panels, mimicking twinkling stars. This playful element sparks children’s imagination.
  • Planetary Pendants: Three lightweight, hand-blown glass spheres (diameter: 8in) hang below the cloud panels. Each sphere is a different color (blue, green, yellow) representing planets. They provide task lighting for parents filling out forms while adding a whimsical touch. The hand-blown glass offers a unique aesthetic and supports local artisans (potentially in each major city).
  • LED Lighting: All lighting utilizes energy-efficient dimmable LEDs. This allows for adjusting the overall light level and the intensity of the twinkling stars, creating a dynamic and engaging environment.

Light Distribution and Visual Comfort:

  • The diffused light from the cloud panels provides ample general ambient light for the waiting area.
  • The dimmable functionality allows for adjusting the light level for reading or creating a calmer atmosphere.
  • The task lighting from the planetary pendants provides focused light on paperwork without creating glare.
  • The fiber optic starlight creates a gentle sparkle, adding a playful element without overwhelming the visual comfort.

Documentation:

  • A dimensioned plan will show the fixture’s size and placement within the waiting room.
  • A section drawing will detail the construction of the fixture, highlighting the materials used for each component.
  • A digital rendering will showcase the Playful Planet in a waiting room setting, demonstrating its visual impact on the space.
  • An additional rendering will depict children interacting with the fixture, emphasizing its playful nature.

Conclusion:

The Playful Planet light fixture achieves the client’s program goals by providing functional lighting for adults while creating a comfortable and engaging space for children. Its use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient LEDs aligns with the LEED Gold rating pursuit. The playful design elements promote a positive and calming atmosphere for young patients and their families.

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