|
Four Point Design: Finding purpose in Healthcare Interiors
Since its founding in 2015, Four Point Design has specialized in healthcare interiors. While the each of the firm’s three partners have unique stories and experiences they bring to their work, they share a common passion for healthcare and its impact on people’s lives.
“The work we do means something,” said Jamie Raymond, RID, EDAC, LEED AP. “It supports patients during their happiest time—like the birth of a baby, to their most vulnerable times—like losing a loved one or going through illness. In addition, the level of commitment and passion it takes to be a healthcare clinician inspires me to do my best work for them.”
“Healthcare design requires a different skill set—it’s more complicated, intricate, and in many ways more impactful than other facilities,” said Diana Ricks, RID, LEED AP ID+C. “People are under stress, and the past few years have been especially difficult. As designers, we strive to create an environment that comforts patients and supports caregivers.”
“I also like that healthcare is always evolving,” added Victoria Numbers, RID, MSIA. “We’re regularly exploring how to better support care delivery through our designs and researching materials that are both sustainable and durable.”
Working in healthcare holds personal meaning for the team, as well. When Jamie was 19, her mother was diagnosed with cancer, requiring a 12-hour brain surgery.
“It was traumatizing, so there’s a lot I don't remember,” Jamie said. “I do remember waiting in the lounge, but can’t really recall the color of the walls, the lighting levels, or the artwork. What I do remember was the care she received and the communication from the caregivers. Today, as a designer, I see the built environment as a backdrop—a supporting element that gives caregivers the tools to do their best work and allows patients and their loved ones to focus on healing.”
Victoria also has firsthand knowledge of the healthcare experience. Her mother was an intensive care unit nurse for 30 years. When Victoria had her son, she spent two weeks in the hospital, and he was in the neonatal intensive care unit for a month.
“I gained a whole new appreciation for what caregivers do,” she said. “As a designer, I look for any opportunity to make their job easier or more pleasant. For example, we’re working on a staff suite with spaces and amenities that give caregivers a place to refresh and recharge.” In addition to finding meaning in their healthcare work, the team enjoys supporting Executive Women in Healthcare through sponsorship and volunteering.
“As a women-owned business, we’re always looking for ways to support women in healthcare, whether it’s the caregiver on the patient floor or someone in the C-suite moving healthcare forward,” Diana said. “Through EHWC involvement, it’s also fun to interact with people we’ve worked with on projects, connecting with them in a different way.”
| 
