Improving The Design Of Pediatric Rehabilitation Centre Using Environmentally Friendly Ideas: Case Study Of Some Selected Hospitals In South-East Nigeria

Abstract

Pediatric rehabilitation centres play a vital role in the long-term recovery and developmental support of children with physical, neurological, or musculoskeletal conditions. Yet in many Nigerian hospitals, the architectural design of these centres neglects children’s environmental and emotional needs, which are essential for healing. This study examines how environmentally responsive design can improve pediatric rehabilitation centres in South-East Nigeria, focusing on two case hospitals: Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, and Amanda Hospital, Imo State. A mixed-methods approach combined site observations and semi-structured interviews with healthcare staff, caregivers, and administrators, alongside secondary data from journals and design manuals. Key dimensions assessed include spatial organisation, natural ventilation, daylighting, sensory qualities, landscape integration, and material choice. Findings reveal limited child-centred features, weak connection to nature, and minimal adoption of eco-friendly design strategies. Environmental comfort, emotional well-being, and functional efficiency emerged as critical gaps affecting therapeutic experience and outcomes. The study proposes context-sensitive design principles for Nigerian pediatric rehabilitation, emphasising biophilic elements, adaptive spatial layouts, and passive environmental control. The research contributes to healthcare architecture and sustainable design discourse and offers a practical framework to guide architects, policymakers, and health planners in transforming paediatric rehabilitation facilities in resource-constrained settings