This post is in a series where we talk to healthcare interior designers about their work as interior designers in the healthcare market. Kristin Ellingsen is a Facilities Space Planner at City of Hope Medical Center. She 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?

Elizabeth Brawley – After living alone with a memory-impaired grandmother, her books and speaking events (especially when she teamed up with Jane Rohde) resonated with me.

What products have you been excited about recently?

I’m excited to see the variations in seating, with better ergonomics and accessories like lighting and power.

Do you have any go-to design solutions or techniques for creating healing environments?

I don’t think there is a simple, all-inclusive option; each environment is different and we create the best possible solution for each one.

If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?

Good thing you listened when your husband told you to do what you love.

What is one product that doesn't exist but should?

A coated fabric that is environmentally friendly and can withstand the variety of cleaners and UV disinfection process used in the acute care environment.

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), Crystal Hill (Odell Associates), 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).

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