Architecture

Bringing Fun and Hope to Young Patients: The Enchanted Valley Project

Imagine a children’s hospital floor transformed into a magical escape. This isn’t a dream; it’s the reality at the Maternal and Child Hospital of Malaga, Spain.

Por: Rubén Carrillo
Hospital Materno Infantil de Málaga / Photo via 100Architecs
Hospital Materno Infantil de Málaga / Photo via 100Architecs

The Enchanted Valley project, spearheaded by the Juegaterapia Foundation, has breathed new life into the hospital’s pediatric wing.

 

Enchanted Valley isn’t just about keeping kids entertained. The project recognizes the vital role play therapy can play in a child’s recovery. 

 

Scientific research demonstrates that happiness and a positive mood significantly impact a child’s healing journey. 

 

By incorporating play into the healing process, Enchanted Valley fosters hope and a sense of well-being for young patients.

 

The 7th floor of the hospital has been transformed into a multi-sensory playground. Stepping out onto the outdoor terraces, children are greeted by two distinct experiences.

One terrace recreates a whimsical forest, complete with enchanting trees and playful floor graphics. The other terrace transports them to a seaside wonderland with waves and a calming blue color palette.

 

Taking inspiration from Malaga’s stunning natural beauty, the project seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces. 

 

Vertical columns on the terraces morph into magical trees, maximizing space for play areas and immersive experiences. 

 

Floor graphics mimic natural elements, with flowers and plants on the forest side and waves and algae on the seaside side, creating interactive play areas and inviting seating options.

The Enchanted Valley Project / Photo via 100Architecs
The Enchanted Valley Project / Photo via 100Architecs

Connecting the Worlds of Play

The indoor space acts as a central hub, seamlessly connecting the two outdoor experiences. Earthy tones and wood textures evoke a mountain pathway, leading children through the space. 

 

Play areas branch out from this central path, with a green and yellow color palette on the forest side and a blue and aquamarine theme on the seaside side.

Hospital Materno Infantil de Málaga / Photo via 100Architecs
Hospital Materno Infantil de Málaga / Photo via 100Architecs

A Pioneering Approach to Hospital Design

The Enchanted Valley project sets a new standard for children’s spaces within hospitals. It recognizes the crucial role these spaces play in a child’s recovery, going beyond mere entertainment to create a truly impactful environment. 

 

This impactful design, based on research conducted by the Juegaterapia Foundation and La Paz University Hospital of Madrid, empowers young patients on their healing journey.

The Enchanted Valley Project / Photo via 100Architecs
The Enchanted Valley Project / Photo via 100Architecs

We hope you enjoyed this article about 100Architecs. If you did, please share it with others. You might also be interested in reading our article about Diptyque, or browsing other reviews in our Wellness section.

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