Exploring Biophilic design features for enhancing patients’ recovery in paediatric hospitals in Kano

The contemporary healthcare sector usually focuses on clinical needs despite strong evidence that there are some components that plays a vital role in health outcomes improvement among which is Biophilia. However, the design approach of providing naturalistic spaces that connects patients with natural world was less considered in most of the existing pediatric hospitals in Kano. Therefore, using mixed method this research explored the Biophilic design patterns suitable for pediatric hospitals. In this regard, Biophilic patterns that have direct impact on patient’s recovery outcome in some selected hospitals in Kano was discovered, Isiyaka Rabiu Pediatric Hospital, Hasiya Bayero Pediatric Hospital and Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital. Data was collected through questionnaire (111 respondents) from all the three hospitals and interview. The information obtained was analyzed using Relative Importance Index and Content Analysis respectively.  It was found that Natural Ventilation, Natural Lighting, Water Features, Natural Landscape, Attraction and Beauty with RII of 0.97, 0.95, 0.92, 0.91 and 0.91 respectively are the most impactful features in terms of children’s healing. However, the study found that biophilic features such as Natural Colors, Landscape Orientation, Images of Nature, Natural Materials, Views and Vistas, Natural Colors with RII of 0.82, 0.77, 0.74, 0.72, 0.71 and 0.67 respectively are less significant in terms of children’s healing process. Considering the health benefits of Biophilic design in pediatric hospitals, architects are urged to make conscious decisions in bringing nature into the hospital environment, through integrating natural lighting and ventilation, rich Natural landscape, water features, healing garden and indoor plants.