The new College of Health Sciences Building and Nursing & Health Sciences Hall at the University of California Irvine supports the institution’s goal of becoming a national model for integrative health. The new 205,000-sf facility houses nursing, medical doctorate, pharmacy, philosophy, and public health programs in a single building.

With biophilic elements incorporated throughout the LEED Platinum building and a natural courtyard, students are taught holistic mind, body, and spirit benefits of nature in a medical setting. The building features teaching labs, a simulation center, and dedicated lounge space with access to beautiful outdoor spaces, community spaces, and natural elements.

“These elements come together to not only improve students’ learning outcomes, but also their health and wellness with access to nature and daylight, chances for building community and interaction between disciplines, and enriching research and learning through exposure to other programs, practitioners, clinicians, and students,” according to a news release.

Tangram provided furniture for entry, administrative, classroom, lounge, and lab spaces that lean into the dedication to wellness and hands-on learning. 

“The furniture encourages students and faculty to engage with the space and one another in a way that brings lectures to life, making healthcare tangible, holistic, and experiential," says Kimberly Wiggs, Tangram Director of Education.

Bringing together medical programs “creates a premium experience that enhances learning outcomes by educating students beyond traditional lab classrooms,” Ball says. “Students see the benefits of biophilic design and collaborative spaces as patients are healed holistically.”

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