Interior Architecture in Hospice Facilities for Children: an Investigation on How to Connect the Needs of Patients With a Space's Interior Design

Abstract

In the face of life-limiting diseases affecting children, the conventional trajectory of a lifetime takes an exceptional turn. Approximately 50,000 children, teenagers, and young adults in Germany grapple with incurable, life-limiting diseases, resulting in around 5,000 annual deaths (Lang 2021, 14). Families of these children, devoid of the resources of a professional institution at home, dedicate themselves to care, impacting their personal and social lives negatively (Poulsen and others 2017, 73). Children's hospices play a crucial role in supporting affected families from the moment of diagnosis, aiming to alleviate emotional stress for the entire family. This research delves into the significance of hospice facilities in providing comfort and growth opportunities for children in their final stage of life. Unlike conventional hospitals, which often exude a cool and sterile atmosphere, hospices strive to create environments that prioritize the well-being of the child. The interior architecture of these spaces should not only facilitate medical care but also provide room for personal growth and play, recognizing the unique needs of children facing life-limiting diseases. Keywords: Life-Limiting Diseases, Children's Hospices, Family Support, Emotional Stress, Interior Architecture, Conventional Hospitals, Comfort, Growth Opportunities