The importance of colors around us. #ColorLatino

I’ll never forget when I was doing one of my first clinical rotations at HealthPark Medical Center in Fort Myers, Florida. My jaw dropped the first time I walked in and took in the beautiful glass elevators, piano player in the middle of the lobby and soothing color scheme straight out of the Sherwin Williams neutral nuances color palettes. I remarked to one of my mentors that this hospital looked like a hotel. She agreed, and said that finally, here was a place where people could come to when they’re not feeling well, that’s not depressing.

She said now the hospital had a certain vibrance.

Almost six years later, I still remember how just changing the colors of one of the most probably unwelcoming rooms you can encounter, a hospital room, could make someone who is not feeling well, just a little bit more comfortable. I think it’s safe to say that most people don’t want to go to a hospital. Going there most likely means you’re sick, or you’re visiting someone who is. I’ve seen family members and patients who, even though they were not going through the best of situations, seem to deal better, and even heal better because they were in a more supportive and calming environment.

There is actually something called Evidence Based Design (EBD), which is the process of basing decisions about the environment we build, on credible research in order to achieve the best possible outcome. There are numerous studies which suggest that our physical environment impacts not only patient stress and safety, but also the effectiveness and quality of care provided by hospital staff. You see, while we want to calm and soothe the patient, it’s also important that the medical staff feels they’re working in a functional and inspiration atmosphere.

The importance of color in our work lives, and or personal lives cannot be overlooked. If you don’t believe me, pay attention to how you feel the next time you step into a room or office. We also tend to associate certain colors with memories and feelings. When I think of vibrant colors, my mind goes to my island of Puerto Rico with it’s colorful and beautiful homes lining the streets of San Juan. Or all the fun times I had on the streets of South Beach filled with eclectic Art-Deco style. All across Latin America, people have different economic realities but vibrance is a sought after and cherished quality.

Photo credit: Emilio J Santacoloma via photopin cc

Disclosure: This is part of a compensated campaign with Sherwin Williams. I only write about products or services I personally reviewed that I consider to be positive images of health and wellness. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”