Quality healthcare is absolutely vital to ensure people are happy and healthy. It has a massive impact on the economy too. However, there can be big challenges, especially as populations grow. There can be a massive divide between urban and rural locations too. We want to have a closer look at this today to see how architects can help. Then, if you need help with commercial architecture or other projects, you can rely on us.

An interesting case study

India is one location where it is easy to see the difference between urban and rural healthcare. This year it overtook China to claim the title of most populated country in the world. Current figures say the population is over 1.4bn. The UN is also estimating it will grow by over 220m by 2050.

With such a massive population as well as more growth on the horizon, there is a lot of pressure on the healthcare infrastructure. The estimate is 75% of it is in urban areas, leaving rural spots under-served. This is a huge divide and puts pressure on both.

Luckily, there is a lot of work to improve the situation. Much of it involves updating primary healthcare centres in urban areas as well as community centres in rural spots. The idea is to reduce the load on the former by improving the latter. It will hopefully also reduce migration from rural spots.

In addition, there is work to improve the infrastructure beyond healthcare in rural spots. This includes things like enhancing access to good education and providing more essential services. The idea is it will help more professionals to remain in these areas rather than migrating to urban areas.

Important details

One of the crucial things here is that commercial architecture must be able to meet patient needs in both urban and rural areas. Great designs can go a long way to improving health and wellbeing. They can ensure people have clean air, daylight, and can get enough rest.

A fantastic area to look at is biophilic design. Introducing more natural elements can have a massive impact on health and the response to treatment. In fact, some studies say being able to see nature can speed up recovery times. Crucially, it can reduce stress and pain.

In rural areas healthcare architecture has additional obstacles to deal with. Notably, it needs to respect the climate, culture, and needs of the people. In addition, buildings must be inclusive. Using local art and choosing flora from the area is really great too.

Architects should use all the tools at their disposal to create wonderful healthcare buildings. A strategic design approach will always work best. It should include a focus on creating patient-centric environments.

Creating incredible commercial architecture

Coffey Architects can use all of the ideas above to help deliver amazing buildings. We can consider every aspect of the user experience as well as the benefits of things like biophilic design. Ultimately, we can ensure they are delivering on the promise.

So, if you need some help with any kind of commercial architecture, speak to us. You can also find out more about us on our website if you are interested in what we do.