Creating seamless healthcare journeys through nature-inspired design

Overview
Büro North collaborated with Architectus and HDR to develop the wayfinding strategy for Sunshine Coast University Hospital, a world-class healthcare facility on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. The strategy emphasized intuitive navigation and seamless connections between the hospital’s indoor and outdoor spaces, capitalizing on the area’s coastal climate to create a calming environment for patients and staff. Key design features include a central courtyard and outdoor room, integrating natural air, light, and greenery into the hospital experience. Büro North’s wayfinding system ensures that visitors can navigate the large, 20-hectare campus with ease, enhancing accessibility while supporting patient wellbeing. By aligning the hospital’s design with the local landscape and community, the strategy reinforces a sense of healing and connection to nature. The Sunshine Coast University Hospital also achieved a ‘6 star’ Green Star rating for its sustainable design, underscoring the importance of environmental harmony in the healthcare experience.