Transforming Hospitals into Places of Hope: A Conversation with Bing Xue

I am Bing Xue, a distinguished and internationally recognised healthcare architectural designer, celebrated for my extraordinary ability to craft innovative and impactful designs that advance the field of healthcare architecture. My work bridges cutting-edge architectural practices and healthcare innovation, shaping environments that enhance patient care, promote healing, and set new benchmarks in the industry. I hold a master’s degree from the prestigious Clemson Architecture + Health program, renowned for cultivating leaders in healthcare design and advancing research-driven, human-centric architectural solutions.

Currently, I am a healthcare architectural designer at the Atlanta office of Perkins&Will, one of the most prestigious global architecture firms. With a multidisciplinary team of over 2,600 professionals across 30 studios worldwide, Perkins&Will delivers world-class expertise in architecture, interior design, branded environments, urban design, and landscape architecture.

At Perkins&Will, I contribute to high-profile healthcare projects, applying my exceptional skills to create transformative spaces that blend functionality, aesthetics, and innovation. My work emphasises designing adaptable, sustainable, and patient-centred environments that address complex healthcare challenges.

Before joining Perkins&Will, I honed my expertise at Hammel, Green and Abrahamson (HGA), a highly respected firm recognised for its excellence in architectural design. During my tenure, I collaborated on a variety of impactful healthcare projects, where I demonstrated my ability to tackle intricate design challenges and deliver exceptional results.

My professional journey reflects a consistent track record of excellence and innovation, earning me accolades and recognition within the architecture and healthcare communities. I am deeply committed to pushing the boundaries of healthcare design through visionary ideas and technical mastery, solidifying my reputation as a thought leader and pioneer in the field. My extraordinary ability to integrate design excellence with healthcare needs positions me as an influential figure in advancing the future of healthcare architecture.

I’ve always been deeply inspired by architecture’s profound ability to shape how we live, heal, and connect with one another. From an early age, I recognised that thoughtful design goes beyond aesthetics—it has the power to transform lives by improving health and well-being. I chose to become a designer because I am passionate about bridging imagination and reality, using creativity and innovation to address real-world challenges and make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

Healthcare architecture, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. Hospitals are spaces that everyone will experience at some point in their lives, from the moment of birth to the final stages of life. These environments are critical to the human experience—they are where lives begin, where healing happens, and where families come together in times of joy or difficulty. I wanted to dedicate my career to designing spaces that not only provide medical care but also foster comfort, dignity, and healing for patients, families, and staff.

For me, healthcare design is about creating more than just functional buildings; it’s about designing environments that promote physical recovery, emotional well-being, and a sense of hope. By integrating elements like natural light, biophilic features, and intuitive layouts, I strive to design spaces that reduce stress, enhance patient outcomes, and support the caregivers who dedicate their lives to helping others.

My goal is to ensure that these spaces are inclusive, adaptable, and deeply human-centred—meeting the diverse needs of individuals and communities while anticipating the future of healthcare delivery. Through my work, I aim to make a lasting impact by shaping spaces that truly help and heal people, recognising the essential role healthcare architecture plays throughout every stage of life.

I am an architectural designer at the Atlanta office of Perkins&Will, one of the world’s leading architecture firms, renowned for its expertise in architecture, interior design, branded environments, urban design, and landscape architecture. With a legacy of innovation and a commitment to sustainability, Perkins&Will is dedicated to creating spaces that inspire, heal, and connect communities across the globe.

In my role, I contribute to the design and delivery of healthcare projects by developing schematic designs, preparing detailed construction documents, and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations. My work involves conducting in-depth site analyses, assisting in the selection and integration of specialised medical equipment, and collaborating closely with engineers, consultants, and project stakeholders to ensure seamless project execution.

I utilise advanced BIM modeling to produce precise and efficient designs, integrating complex medical equipment and adhering to rigorous healthcare-specific design standards. My focus is on creating environments that are not only functional and efficient but also human-centred, promoting healing and well-being for patients, staff, and visitors alike. My role allows me to contribute meaningfully to healthcare architecture, shaping spaces that positively impact lives at every stage of the human experience.

To me, design is more than just art or functionality—it is a form of therapy. It is a deliberate and compassionate process of shaping environments that nurture both the body and mind. Good design has the power to heal, providing spaces that offer comfort, reduce stress, and foster a sense of safety and well-being.

In healthcare architecture especially, design transcends aesthetics and becomes a tool for recovery. It can transform hospitals into places of hope and connection, where thoughtful layouts, natural light, and calming materials work together to ease anxiety and promote healing. Design is an act of advocacy, a way to honour the needs and values of its users by creating spaces that inspire, uplift, and improve quality of life. Ultimately, design is about building environments that empower people to thrive—physically, emotionally, and socially.

My favorite kind of design is healthcare design because it offers the unique opportunity to impact lives in meaningful ways, addressing both mental and physical well-being while upholding human dignity. Healthcare spaces are where some of the most profound moments of life unfold—from birth to recovery and, in some cases, end-of-life care. Designing these spaces requires a deep understanding of the human experience and a commitment to creating environments that promote healing, comfort, and respect.

What I find most rewarding about healthcare design is its ability to blend research, technology, and biophilic principles to create spaces that support not only physical recovery but also mental and emotional well-being. Thoughtfully designed environments can reduce stress, encourage connection, and empower patients and caregivers alike.

By integrating user feedback and focusing on inclusivity and adaptability, healthcare design ensures that every individual—whether a patient, family member, or staff—feels valued and supported. To me, healthcare design is about creating spaces where healing happens holistically, honouring both the body and the spirit.

To me, a “good” design is one that is deeply patient-centred. It begins with empathy, understanding the unique needs and experiences of the people who will use the space. A good design prioritises functionality and adaptability, ensuring that it not only meets current needs but can evolve over time to support future demands. It incorporates sustainability, making efficient use of resources while promoting environmental stewardship.

What truly sets a design apart is its ability to create uplifting environments that enhance the quality of life. In healthcare design, this means crafting spaces that offer comfort, reduce stress, and promote healing—for patients, families, and caregivers alike. Whether it’s a bustling medical centre or a serene healing retreat, good design places the individual at the heart of the space, fostering dignity, connection, and a sense of well-being. It is about more than solving problems—it is about creating meaningful, transformative experiences that improve lives.

The inspiration for “Time’s Garden: A Beacon of Remembrance” was sparked by immersing myself in the site’s natural contours and local culture. I was especially drawn to the iconic water towers that grace many small Southeastern towns. This gave rise to the concept of the “light tower” as both a welcoming landmark and a functional element for memory care. By curving the building’s footprint, I honoured the topography and created an organic flow between indoors and outdoors.

I also researched how natural light, garden pathways, and familiar wayfinding markers could significantly benefit those dealing with memory challenges. Combining these insights led to a design that fosters both a sense of home and a deeper connection to nature. Ultimately, I wanted “Time’s Garden” to be more than just a care facility—it should feel like a comforting village, where every element, from the tower to the gardens, evokes belonging, dignity, and hope.

One of my main inspirations came from observing how small Southern towns use water towers as communal landmarks, alongside the idea of creating a nurturing environment that seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor experiences. By blending that iconic tower form with gentle, cloud-like rooflines, I sought to evoke both a sense of familiarity—like a hometown memory—and the transcendent passage of time.

The site’s natural topography guided the building’s curved geometry, while the brain-inspired floor and skylight harness the power of light and reflection to help residents connect with the cycles of day, season, and life itself.

Absolutely. China and its rich cultural heritage have a profound impact on my design process, especially in the context of healthcare architecture. Chinese culture emphasises harmony, balance, and the interconnectedness of humanity and nature—values that deeply influence the way I approach the design of healing environments. These principles inspire me to create spaces that not only meet functional requirements but also support mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

In traditional Chinese philosophy, health is viewed as a holistic balance between the body, mind, and environment. This idea resonates with my approach to healthcare design, where I strive to create spaces that integrate natural elements like daylight, greenery, and water to promote healing and reduce stress. The cultural concept of feng shui—the balance and flow of energy in a space—guides my understanding of spatial relationships, ensuring that my designs encourage a sense of calm, connection, and comfort for patients, families, and caregivers.

Chinese architectural heritage also emphasises the use of courtyards and open spaces as areas for gathering, reflection, and connection with nature. I draw upon these elements in healthcare design by incorporating therapeutic gardens, outdoor spaces, and communal areas that foster social interaction and emotional support. These spaces help humanise the clinical environment, offering moments of respite and dignity for those navigating challenging health journeys.

Additionally, the cultural emphasis on community well-being influences my commitment to designing inclusive and adaptable healthcare facilities that serve diverse populations. In Chinese culture, caring for one another is a deeply ingrained value, and I reflect this in designs that prioritise accessibility, patient-centred care, and the seamless integration of technology to improve outcomes and experiences for all users.

By blending traditional Chinese philosophies with contemporary healthcare design principles, I aim to create environments that honour cultural heritage while addressing modern healthcare needs, ultimately fostering healing, dignity, and a sense of belonging for all.

Winning this award is an immense honour and a deeply meaningful milestone in my career as a healthcare architectural designer. It represents the recognition of my individual dedication, innovative thinking, and passion for creating patient-centred healing environments.

For me, this distinction reinforces my commitment to advancing the field of healthcare design. It validates my methodologies and design philosophies, which are rooted in empathy, functionality, and the transformative power of thoughtfully crafted spaces. This award inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of what healthcare environments can achieve—creating spaces that not only meet medical needs but also promote dignity, well-being, and holistic healing.

I submitted the design for “Time’s Garden: A Beacon of Remembrance" because it embodies the kind of thoughtful, site-responsive architecture I believe should be recognised internationally. The project addresses the complex needs of elderly residents living with memory loss while also paying homage to the cultural nuances of its Southeastern setting.

By intertwining a water-tower-inspired landmark, a gently curving roofline that recalls passing clouds, and nature-driven spaces for reflection, the design creates both a sense of home and a beacon of communal identity. I felt that these layered intentions—merging local familiarity, therapeutic design strategies, and broader architectural innovation—would resonate with the jury at the French Design Awards, whose mission is to spotlight progressive solutions that marry functionality, humanity, and artistry.

One of the biggest challenges was ensuring the design met the unique therapeutic needs of memory care residents while also responding to a steep and irregular site. To address these, I incorporated a gently curved building footprint that follows the topography, minimising extensive excavation and helping maintain a natural connection to the landscape.

Another hurdle was designing clear wayfinding features that would reduce confusion and create a sense of comfort for residents. In response, I added strong visual landmarks, such as the light tower and curved roofline, as well as a central garden near the entrance to help orient both residents and caregivers.

Throughout, balancing the need for security with open, welcoming spaces proved crucial: large windows and interior glazing let nurses keep an eye on activities without making the building feel locked down. This blend of thoughtful site adaptation, nature-driven design elements, and intuitive orientation strategies ultimately helped me overcome the project’s technical and emotional complexities.

1. Opportunities for Innovation and Positive Change: The healthcare design industry is constantly evolving, offering endless opportunities to innovate and push boundaries. From integrating cutting-edge technology to reimagining patient-centred care environments, I am inspired by the ability to create designs that address complex challenges and redefine the standards of healing spaces.

2. Collaboration Across Disciplines: Healthcare design thrives on collaboration, bringing together architects, engineers, medical professionals, and other specialists. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that every perspective is considered, leading to solutions that are functional, holistic, and impactful. The collective effort to create meaningful spaces is one of the most rewarding aspects of the industry.

3. Improving Lives and Creating Social Impact: At its core, healthcare design is about improving lives. The ability of thoughtful design to enhance patient outcomes, support caregivers, and create dignified spaces for healing is profoundly meaningful. Knowing that my work contributes to the well-being of individuals and communities is both a privilege and a driving force in my career.

What sets my design apart is its unwavering focus on patient-centred care and the human experience. While many healthcare facilities prioritise meeting clinical and technical standards, my designs go further by placing patient comfort, emotional well-being, and cultural sensitivity at the forefront.

Every aspect of the space is thoughtfully crafted to support healing—natural light, calming materials, intuitive layouts, and therapeutic environments work together to create a sense of dignity and care. This human-centred approach ensures that the spaces are not only functional but also deeply meaningful, fostering connection, comfort, and a holistic sense of well-being for patients, families, and caregivers.

Over the next 5–10 years, I see healthcare design evolving into a field deeply influenced by AI and advanced technologies. AI will play a transformative role, from optimising facility layouts through predictive modeling to personalising patient experiences with data-driven insights. These tools will allow designers to create spaces that are more adaptive, efficient, and responsive to the needs of patients, staff, and communities.

Sustainability and resilience will remain central, with designs prioritising energy efficiency, climate adaptability, and resource-conscious solutions. Equally important will be a continued focus on equity, ensuring that healthcare environments are inclusive and accessible for all.

Collaboration will expand, leveraging interdisciplinary expertise to address complex challenges and integrate diverse perspectives. By combining human-centred design principles with technological innovation, the healthcare design industry will push boundaries, creating spaces that not only heal but also inspire and connect, fostering dignity and well-being for everyone who interacts with them.

Focus on empathy and connection. To create truly impactful designs, engage deeply with the people who will use the spaces—patients, families, and caregivers. Listen to their stories, understand their needs, and translate those insights into environments that prioritise comfort, dignity, and healing.

Be fearless in experimentation. Explore new materials, forms, and technologies, always seeking innovative ways to enhance the user experience. Patient-centred design is about finding solutions that are not only functional but also meaningful and uplifting.

Embrace collaboration and continuous learning. Great designs are often born from interdisciplinary teamwork and the integration of diverse perspectives. Stay curious, learn from every project, and use research to guide your decisions.

Above all, stay committed to creating value. Award-winning designs don’t just look impressive—they solve real problems, enhance lives, and leave a lasting positive impact on the people and communities they serve.

Explore online platforms like YouTube, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning to learn new tools and techniques. Stay updated on trends and innovations by reading reputable publications such as Healthcare Design Magazine and Architectural Record. Participate in professional networking through LinkedIn groups, conferences, and workshops to exchange ideas and connect with industry experts. Finally, gain practical insights and refine your skills through hands-on experiences like internships, mentorships, or collaborative projects.

I experienced several failures before achieving recognition. Early in my career, I submitted multiple designs that garnered little attention, which was both humbling and challenging. However, these setbacks motivated me to dig deeper, refine my approach, and continuously improve. Those early struggles taught me the value of perseverance and resilience, shaping my growth as a designer and deepening my appreciation for every success that followed.

Renzo Piano has been a profound source of inspiration in my life. His work masterfully harmonises beauty, functionality, and humanity, transforming architecture into a medium for healing and connection. Piano’s designs demonstrate how thoughtful, patient-centred architecture can uplift the human spirit and create environments that foster well-being.

His commitment to natural light, simplicity, and purpose-driven design has deeply influenced my own philosophy, reinforcing my belief that architecture is more than a profession—it is a powerful tool for compassion, dignity, and empowerment.

My key to success lies in maintaining a patient-centred focus while balancing visionary thinking with meticulous execution. Dream big, but never lose sight of the details that make a design truly meaningful. Always listen carefully to the needs of those you serve—patients, families, and caregivers—and approach every project with humility and empathy. Remember, design is a continuous journey; there is always room to grow, learn, and create environments that better support healing, dignity, and well-being for all.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my journey and perspectives on patient-centred design. I hope my experiences inspire others to recognise the transformative power of placing people—patients, families, and caregivers—at the core of every healthcare environment.

By truly understanding their needs and experiences and continually challenging ourselves to innovate, we can create spaces that not only heal but also restore dignity, foster connection, and elevate the human experience. Patient-centred design is more than a philosophy; it is a responsibility and an opportunity to make a lasting impact.