This post is in a series where we talk to healthcare interior designers about their work as interior designers in the healthcare market. Crystal Hill is an interior designer at Odell and is certified by the American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers (AAHID).
What is one book, person, or talk that has been most influential in your career?
The most influential person in my career has been the senior interior designer that I work with. She has taught me what it takes to be a great designer and not to limit myself or sell myself short. She has taught me to trust my instincts and talent, but also to pay attention to details and follow through. It takes lots of experience and time to become a great designer.
What products have you been excited about recently?
Vinyl flooring products with a much better protective layer to protect against scratching. I specify a lot of vinyl sheet and tile flooring in the healthcare industry. I find that after a year or two installed, they start to show scratches. I'm happy to see new products on the market that are focused on both aesthetics and durability.
Do you have any go-to design solutions or techniques for creating healing environments?
My go-to design solution when it comes to healthcare is designing for timelessness, both in the aesthetics and the durability. Most healthcare facilities do not get a renovation very often. I specify the most durable materials and patterns. When I'm designing I try to imagine how a material will look installed 10-15 years down the road. Designs that hold up and maintain their impact are the best designs.
If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?
If I could tell my younger self one thing, it would be pay attention to the DETAILS. Design a space completely, even to the smallest detail. That's what makes a space great.
What is one product that doesn't exist but should?
Digital wallpaper. This may exist now but would be too expensive to use. It would be awesome for there to be an affordable digital wallpaper. This could be a soothing nature scene or a fun, interactive graphic for pediatrics. I love the impact of large-scale prints!
We've also talked to Michelle Clark (REES Associates), Jennifer Fink (BDA Architects), Lindsay Hampton (Pulse Design Group), Melinda Avila-Torio (THW Design), Lilliana Alvarado (UPHEALING), Ashleigh Pfluger (TJNG Partners Inc.), Jane Rohde (JSR Associates), John DuBard (Boulder Associates), Lisa Cini (Mosaic Design Studio), Susan Clark (Clark Patterson Lee), Dr. Debra Harris (RAD Consultants), Libby Laguta (L2D.design), Kristin Ellingsen (Office Furniture Group), Kimberly Bernheimer (PF&A Design), Melissa Perry (Inventure), Kelley Dorsett (HDR), Christin Troutman (MCA), Keith Stanton (Thoma-Holec Design), and Clairanne Pesce (Array Architects).
