Hoag Center for Advanced Visualization and Immersive Therapeutics

PROJECT NARRATIVE

This project provides forward-thinking XR (experiential reality) medical care, bringing an innovative therapeutic model to the community it serves. At just 1,000 square feet, the suite's compact footprint belies its robust array of offerings. Three dedicated spaces make up the program: a VR therapy treatment room addressing conditions such as phobias, pain, and post-traumatic stress; an experiential theatre that allows clinicians to virtually guide patients and families through surgeries in advance of their procedure; and a development lab where clinicians can study and build upon the latest advancements in XR applications for healthcare.

Hard lines are softened into curves throughout the suite, using material formwork to create organic shapes with glass and wood. Within the VR therapy treatment room, the design team emphasized materials conducive to treating patients with neurological or vestibular concerns; complex patterns were avoided, for instance, to minimize dizziness.

While designing the experiential theatre, the design team worked closely with Surgical Theater to ensure the space met the exacting specifications needed to install their equipment. Custom consoles were placed between the six chairs in the room to seamlessly incorporate the technology while maintaining a clean, unobtrusive aesthetic.