INTEGRATION OF LANDSCAPE ELEMENTS IN THE DESIGN OF PAEDIATRIC AND WOMEN’S HOSPITAL IN MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

Abstract

The design of healthcare facilities plays a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of patients. As such specific actions like well-designed sidewalks, enhanced vegetation, and minimizing obstacles that hinder seeing and interacting with natural elements are crucial for enhancing residential satisfaction at the local community level. This thesis explores the integration of landscape elements in the design of a paediatric and women’s hospital in Maiduguri, Borno State, with a focus on creating a healing environment to positively impact the mental and emotional well-being of patients. Structured survey was employed in gathering first hand data from hospital staff, patients, and their families. The quantitative data collected helped to determine the effectiveness of the current design and the potential benefits of integrating landscape elements into the design. This helps to identify the most important landscape elements to include in the design. Case studies were also conducted across selected hospitals in Maiduguri, Borno State, so as to identify the landscape elements that have been successfully integrated into their design. The data analysis was carried out using SPSS and reliability tests was done using Cronbach’s alpha. In addition, relative importance index method was employed to determine the landscape elements that was of great prioritization and significant for positive patient health outcomes. The study's findings emphasize the significance of incorporating natural elements into healthcare architecture, highlighting the positive influence of natural lighting, views of nature, and outdoor seating areas on patient well-being. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the vital role of landscape elements in improving the overall well-being and healing environment for patients in the proposed hospital emphasizing the positive influence of thoughtfully designed landscapes on patient well-being, highlighting the significance of natural elements, therapeutic gardens, and green spaces in healthcare settings. The study recommends the thoughtful integration of landscape elements from the design inception to create a comfortable and supportive atmosphere for patients, contributing to better treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.