Hospitals and healthcare facilities are often associated with stress and uncertainty, but thoughtful design can turn these environments into places of comfort and healing. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how glass art transforms sterile spaces into vibrant, inspiring environments. By integrating light, color, and texture, glass art has a unique ability to create a sense of tranquility and connection, making it an ideal medium for healthcare spaces.

Studies in environmental psychology and healthcare design have consistently highlighted the positive impact of art in medical settings:

• Stress Reduction: Art has been shown to lower cortisol levels and alleviate anxiety. Organic designs in glass, such as flowing water textures, are especially calming (BMJ Open, 2021).

• Pain Management: Research suggests that patients exposed to art experience lower levels of pain and discomfort during treatments (Journal of Pain and Symptom Management).

• Faster Recovery: Visual art has been linked to shorter hospital stays and improved healing outcomes by promoting a more positive mindset (The Guardian, 2024).

• Enhanced Patient Experience: Art creates a welcoming atmosphere, reducing the institutional feel of hospitals and improving the overall experience for patients and families.

Glass is uniquely suited to healthcare environments because of its ability to interact with light and evoke openness. Here’s why it stands out:

• Dynamic Interaction with Light: Textured and colored glass shifts with natural and artificial light, creating uplifting, ever-changing visual effects.

• Transparency and Privacy: Frosted or etched glass can provide privacy without isolation, allowing light to pass through while maintaining a soothing ambiance.

• Hygienic and Durable: Glass is easy to clean, making it a practical choice for hospitals where cleanliness is paramount.

• Customizable and Nature-Inspired: Designs inspired by water, landscapes, and organic textures help create an environment of calm and relaxation.

Over the years, I’ve worked on numerous projects that integrate glass art into healthcare environments. Here are some of the most impactful applications:

• Donor Recognition Walls: Combining artistic beauty with meaningful acknowledgment, these installations create inspiring focal points in hospitals.

• Healing Gardens & Outdoor Installations: Glass sculptures and panels reflect natural light, enhancing the connection to nature.

• Privacy Screens & Room Dividers: Providing functional separation while maintaining a sense of openness.

• Ceilings & Skylights: Bringing the illusion of the sky indoors, offering a sense of peace and spaciousness.

One of my most memorable projects was a cancer treatment center where we installed a series of kiln-formed glass panels designed to mimic the movement of water. Patients began requesting seats near the installation during chemotherapy sessions, saying it helped them feel at ease. Another time, a nurse suggested incorporating small hidden details—playful shapes for visitors to discover—which turned out to be a wonderful distraction technique.

The most fulfilling part of this work is collaborating with healthcare teams, designers, and donors to create custom pieces that enhance healing environments. Each project is an opportunity to craft something truly unique that resonates with patients, families, and medical staff. 

After two decades of working in this space, I’m more excited than ever about the possibilities. We’re exploring new techniques, integrating movement and interactivity, and continuing to push the boundaries of what glass can achieve in healing spaces.

If you’re looking to incorporate glass art into your healthcare facility, I’d love to hear about your vision. Together, we can create spaces that not only look beautiful but also support healing and well-being in meaningful ways.

- Avery Shaffer

Let’s start a conversation. How can glass art transform your space?