The reception area of the Cheyne Child Development Service at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital has received a substantial refurbishment with the support of our Arts in Health programme.
The previous waiting area was outdated and poorly optimised for children with special developmental and educational needs, who the family-centred service works to support. The space also had unsatisfactory accessibility for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
With the help of Ensigna and the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Estates Team, we have transformed the old softplay area into a reception space; including repainting, upgrading electrics and a new reception desk. In addition, we supported the purchase of new seating for the reception area.
To enhance the space, we also carried out a consultation session with staff and parent groups to choose artwork for the walls, leading to attractive prints by Benjamin Craven (pictured, below) being installed.
As part of the refurbishment, we commissioned artist Lottie Hall to create artwork to brighten up the large blank wall stretching the length of the reception area. In response, Lottie arranged a mark-making workshop with the local Queensmill School, who regularly use the Cheyne Child Development Service. The marks and patterns created by the local children in this workshop were used to inform the textures in Lottie’s design.
See how the artworks created by the schoolchildren (above) were integrated into Lottie’s wall design (below).
We also supported in the purchase and installation of sensory items such as interactive wall elements, a concave mirror, and a sensory hurricane tube. These sensory installations can help reduce stress in children with developmental disabilities while providing essential sensory interactions, helping to stimulate their experiences and providing feedback to their sensory systems.
Our Arts In Health programme transforms the hospital environment for patients, families, volunteers and staff. We work with renowned partners who specialise in health, technology and environmental design, bringing together the healing power of art and the latest innovations in design to create a patient-focused environment.
Learn more about the latest Arts in Health projects here.
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