Components of children's hospital architecture from the perspective of staff: A mixed-method case study from Iran

The study focuses on children's hospitals, exploring architectural elements from the perspective of staff members. These individuals spend considerable hours within these hospital settings and possess unique insights into the spatial requirements that can significantly impact their work. Their feedback is crucial for architects and designers, who can incorporate the research findings into their designs. The components in this research have been prioritized so that, during times of limitation, the most critical elements receive the necessary attention. A hospital design approach that considers the specific needs of staff and patients, integrates technology to enhance care, and incorporates cultural factors can help create more functional and satisfying healthcare environments. The studied hospital is 17 Shahrivar Hospital in Rasht, Iran. Research data was gathered through a literature review and empirical data collection via a structured questionnaire. Articles served as a primary source of information, while electronic questionnaires were used to gauge the insights of the staff. The findings suggest that by refining certain internal aspects, the architecture of children's hospitals can be optimized to improve staff satisfaction. According to the staff, the key architectural elements influencing their experience include positive entertainment spaces, interior decoration, and a pleasing view of the outdoors. While this study provides valuable insights, its limitations must be noted. The small sample size and the challenges of collecting data during a pandemic may have affected the generalizability of the findings. Future research could involve a larger sample size to enhance the robustness of the results.