Healing-focused design is becoming a core consideration for architects working in healthcare environments. With growing evidence linking access to nature with improved patient outcomes and staff well-being, many hospitals are reimagining how exterior spaces (including rooftop deck systems) can contribute to the healing process. Elevated decks supported by modular pedestal systems allow healthcare teams to transform underused roof areas into functional outdoor environments, strengthening patient experience without expanding the building footprint.
Decades of research demonstrate that exposure to nature provides a meaningful clinical impact. Hospitals offering accessible outdoor environments report measurable benefits, including:
These findings reinforce the role of biophilic design as an evidence-supported component of patient-centered care. When outdoor environments are thoughtfully designed (accessible, safe, and integrated into the overall care model), they become extensions of the healing process.
Nature-rich environments support far more than patient recovery. Healthcare professionals benefit significantly from restorative outdoor areas on campus.
For dense healthcare campuses where expansion is not feasible, rooftop spaces offer one of the most effective ways to add therapeutic environments.
Architects designing healing spaces often focus on strategies that combine accessibility, comfort, and connection to nature. Effective approaches include:
These considerations help integrate healing spaces seamlessly into clinical environments.
Bison Innovative Products manufactures modular pedestal systems and deck surfaces that help healthcare teams create inviting, accessible rooftop environments. Recent installations, such as those at the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), demonstrate how elevated decks contribute to healing-based design.
CHOC’s rooftop decking system outside the pre-teen and teen rooms uses Versadjust® Pedestals to form a level walking surface over a sloped roof, supporting programming for patients and families.
The design team incorporated wood tiles, benches, landscaping elements, and artwork (including the Choco Bear sculpture) to create a restorative and engaging environment.
Non-penetrating Bison pedestals help protect roofing membranes, an essential consideration for healthcare facilities managing sensitive building systems.
CHOC’s rooftop includes a 3,000 sq ft rehabilitation and play area and a 7,000 sq ft public garden - demonstrating how elevated surfaces can support diverse programming needs.
The Garden of Messages Wall at CHOC, filled with patient and family artwork, illustrates how rooftop environments can enrich emotional connection and support a culture of healing.
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Research consistently links access to nature with shorter recovery times, reduced stress markers, improved mood, and lower reliance on pain medication. Healing spaces can support both physiological and psychological recovery within healthcare environments.
Yes. Rooftop decking system allows healthcare facilities to add restorative outdoor environments even when ground-level expansion is limited. Modular pedestal-supported elevated decks help create level, accessible surfaces on roofs of varying slopes and conditions.
Bison Innovative Products recommends that all rooftop deck systems should be installed by a licensed contractor with at least 2 years of proven experience. Plans/designs for a rooftop deck should be reviewed by a safety/structural engineer before commencing construction. The roof must be able to safely carry the static and live load weights of the rooftop deck, and any amenities added along with the appropriate density of any insulation to resist crushing and damaging the waterproof membrane. Adding items such as hardscaping features, hot tubs, or pools to a rooftop deck requires additional guidance and oversight from an engineer. Property owners should research and abide by any building codes and other regulations to obtain the required permits prior to having a rooftop deck installed. Please read all product specifications posted on Bisonip.com to review all information prior to any installation.