Hospital anxiety is a common experience, particularly among children facing medical procedures. The new environment's sight, sound, and smell overwhelm one’s senses, and the fear of being separated from loved ones looms large. It's a scenario too familiar for thousands of children every single day.

NBBJ ’s New York-based experience design studio, ESI Design offers a comforting escape for children by introducing them to a virtual world populated with vibrant and amiable woodland creatures. Here innovation meets compassion in the form of "Loma Land" – an interactive digital wonderland designed to turn fear into delight. Nestled within the heart of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. Loma Land welcomes children with open arms, whisking them away to a whimsical forest filled with animated creatures, soothing sounds, and vibrant colors.

Image by Sean Airhart, Courtesy: NBBJ

From the moment a child walks in, they are welcomed to choose a forest creature companion – a fox, bear, deer, rabbit, or raccoon – each representing the native fauna of California. With many customization options, including colorful palettes and playful accessories like acorn hats and leaf masks, every child can create a unique companion to accompany them on their journey.

Image by Sean Airhart, Courtesy: NBBJ

However Loma Land isn't just a mere digital playground; it's a testament to innovation in healthcare. Designed to be easily replicated by hospitals worldwide, its flexible infrastructure allows for seamless integration into various hospital areas, from security checkpoints to gift shops. It's a holistic approach to patient care that extends beyond medical treatment, embracing the emotional well-being of young patients and their families.

Image by Sean Airhart, Courtesy: NBBJ

To tackle long prevailing challenges like such, there were no precedents for the design team. Drawing inspiration from diverse sources – libraries, children's museums, and games; the team embarked on a journey to craft an experience unlike any other. Collaborating closely with pediatric patients and their families, they fine-tuned every detail, ensuring that Loma Land resonated with its audience on a profound level. Accessibility was of great significance throughout the design process, with the team implementing strategies to accommodate the diverse needs of pediatric patients. From adhering to ADA standards for physical accessibility to enhancing digital legibility through font size and contrast adjustments, no detail was overlooked in making Loma Land inclusive for all.

Image by Sean Airhart, Courtesy: NBBJ

The design infrastructure allows for endless expansion possibilities, from new landscapes to themed content and offline engagements like coloring books and plush animals. With a focus on easy maintenance and installation, Loma Land seamlessly integrates into the hospital's operations, ensuring a hassle-free experience for staff and patients alike.

By infusing joy and creativity into the patient journey, it proves that healing begins not only with medical treatment but with compassion, innovation, and a touch of magic.

Project Facts

Client Name: Loma Linda University Health

Square Footage: Overall Area: 1,500 SF (~140 sq mt)

Media Displays: 415 SF ( ~38 sq mt)

Program: Digital Art Installation

Services: Experience design, interior design

Project Status: Completed in November 2023

All images © Sean Arihart. 

Top Image: By Sean Airhart, courtesy: NBBJ

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