Mary Washington Hospital
Mary Washington Hospital
Balancing privacy in a hospital observation unit
In this edition of Design Stories, we will review a health care project in Virginia that used both window films and translucent panels to provide the right aesthetic and privacy while ensuring hospital staff could visually monitor patients.
The Challenge
Mary Washington Healthcare in Fredricksburg, VA needed to expand their ambulatory care and ED units to meet growing patient needs. They turned to e4H Architecture for assistance with the projects. Olee Creative was contacted by e4H to assist in adding some privacy and interest to glass and other elements in the observation unit.
The Process
As one might expect, an observation unit needs to provide the medical staff the ability to monitor patient condition and progress while balancing this with patient privacy. Administrative areas needed to be secure, yet visible. And, the waiting areas needed to be visible to staff while providing family members without having them feel isolated.
As a result, the Olee Creative team were called upon to help provide solutions in two areas: glazed surfaces on sliding doors to patient rooms and glazed surfaces on administrative areas.
Administrative areas in the observation unit required both secure access and visibility to patient areas.
OleeVue Decorative Glaze is our trademarked simulated faux etch ink printed on clear film, with the desired pattern printed in a positive image, providing a decorative effect. OleeVue Films can be applied directly to existing glass or acrylic panels in your space. Film is a cost effective alternative that is durable and inviting. Most patterns available 58” wide by unlimited length.
The e4H team selected the OleeVue film pattern Sticks & Sprouts for use on the sliding doors and administrative windows. The pattern introduces a bit of nature without being overwhelming. Printed in a positive image, the pattern offers both a decorative effect and a degree of privacy.
The Result
"Our film arrived on time and in perfect condition. Thanks for the extra effort from everyone at Olee Creative to make this project a success!"
-Jim Bundick, LEED Green Associate
Mary Washington Hospital were very pleased with the finished product. This project was a great reminder that a space can be both functional and visually pleasing for both patients and employees. The window films helped add a degree of privacy with visual interest without compromising the ability for staff to observe patients.
