Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia looked to Metcalfe to design innovative and playful interactive experiences within the new Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care. 

Metcalfe brought the idea of “Children in Motion” to life through environmental graphics, including over two hundred larger-than-life photographs placed in elevator lobbies, at check-in desks, and in exam rooms.

The graphics are visually appealing, provide essential wayfinding assistance, and enhance comfort and healing — purposefully distracting from intimidating exam room machinery. Each exam room identifier contains a unique photograph to help parents find their child. Exam rooms were renumbered to improve patient flow.

Interactive pieces scattered throughout the waiting areas and lobbies provide unexpected moments of fun in an otherwise stressful environment. Each element is sensitive to the diversity of culture, age, and ability of the Center’s clients. Just as importantly, each area conforms to rigorous standards of cleaning, maintenance, and infection prevention.

Images of children at play are integral to the environmental graphics and serve as a reminder of the people who really matter — the children healing at the Center.

HEALTHCARE // HOSPITALS // GRAPHIC DESIGN // ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHICS // SOCIAL SPACE DESIGN // INFORMAL LEARNING