Studio EMMI and Peepshow Collective have helped bring play into the corridors of the children’s wards at University College Hospital in London. The nine-month project funded by UCLH Charity – run by Creative Directors Chrissie Macdonald and Emmi Salonen – has transformed clinical white walls with vibrant graphics and engaging images that provide a more welcoming environment.
"It was great to work on a project with such a clear, purposeful and positive outcome. It has been most rewarding," Salonen and Macdonald say.
Artwork throughout is themed on ‘the soundtrack of London’, reflecting the interests of the patients and illustrating soundwaves reverberating around the city that can be seen from every window. Illustrators Luke Best, Jenny Bowers and Lucy Vigrass have also contributed to the scheme, which was developed after extensive consultation with patients and staff.
Maddalena Branduardi, Health Play specialist at University College Hospital believes the changes will help with treatment.
‘Play in hospitals can speed up the healing process; it makes the hospital feel familiar,’ says the specialist.
Finnish born Emmi Salonen set up Studio EMMI in London 2005. Emmi has designed numerous projects for the Finnish Institute in London since 2008. Her work includes identities, websites, catalogues, books and other printed matter for clients from the worlds of art, culture, commerce and academia. As well as designing, Emmi teaches and lectures regularly nationwide at various universities.
Peepshow, founded in 2000 by graduates of the University of Brighton , is a multi-disciplinary collective focusing on illustration, animation and art direction.