The design of your medical space can do more than you may realize in shaping the patient experience. Not only is art functional and an important part of interior design, but it can help transform an otherwise sterile environment into a more welcoming and relaxing place for everyone.

Choosing the right art for your medical space involves carefully balancing aesthetics, atmosphere, and other important factors. Here are a few helpful tips when finding an art piece for your practice.

Focus on Calming Colors and Imagery

The first step in choosing art for your medical space is understanding the impact of visual elements on mood. Blues, greens, and neutral shades often help create calming, more relaxing environments than brighter, bolder colors such as red or orange. Pick landscapes that utilize these colors and show blue ocean waters or green forests. These types of landscapes can help reduce stress for patients in the waiting room.

Some doctors understand the effects of abstract art and may choose pieces that emphasize simple colors and shapes over realistic art. The end goal is to make sure you have pieces with a calming effect rather than ones that may increase anxiety in patients that are already experiencing stress.

Choose Art That Reflects Your Patient Demographics

When choosing the right art for your medical space, consider the diversity of your patient base. For example, pediatricians may aim for brighter, more colorful pieces that children and families may appreciate over more realistic landscapes.

On the other hand, a cardiology center may benefit from serene and sophisticated artwork that appeals to an older audience seeking reassurance and trust. Whether you look for abstract or more realistic pieces, you can find something for your facility that appeals to a broad audience.

Prioritize Quality and Placement

The right artwork helps elevate the atmosphere of your clinic or waiting room, making it feel more professional. Printed canvases, framed photographs, and original paintings can enhance the environment while demonstrating your commitment to creating a welcoming space.

Try to place your pieces so they appear at eye level with patients sitting in your waiting room. Try to include art in hallways and consultation rooms as well to make every space feel like it has a personal touch.

Well-chosen art does more than decorate your medical space—it helps establish a connection with patients, conveys your practice’s identity, and creates an environment where people feel more at ease. You can transform your space by curating pieces that reflect the standard of excellence and care that you want to provide to your patients.

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