Color Me Getting Better

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This article appeared in Summer 2008 issue of Texoma Living!.

Angela Lee, the Project Designer from HKS Inc., the architectural design firm that is creating the plans for the new TMC Medical Facility, believes that color is one of the most useful and powerful design tools she has. “People respond to different colors in different ways,” Lee says, “and these responses usually take place on a subconscious, emotional level. Colors can stimulate or relax our senses, release happy memories, and reflect how we feel about ourselves and our personal space.”

Color research organizations prescribe soft, soothing colors— blue-grays, greengrays— cooler colors for medical facilities. At this time, HKS has not decided on colors, but Lee said that her design team generally likes to use warm tones.

Lee understands the importance of getting the color right. She quoted a co-worker, Franne Stewart, “Color has a powerful effect on us as individuals! It not only can express who we are, it can change who we are.” That’s why Lee believes in creating spaces that bring harmony and calmness in a hospital. The feeling of a safe haven should be carried throughout.

To choose a warm color that is calming, Lee will have to go with neutrals, perhaps a warm tan or terra cotta or cinnamon. Whatever the colors, she assures, “they will be the color of healing. Trends come and go, but Texoma Medical Center is designed to be a healing environment for years to come.”