How does the design of a hospital shape recovery, staff well‑being, and the quality of care? BUILD 2.0 set out to answer this by reviewing 406 research papers published between 2010 and 2021—one of the most comprehensive assessments of healthcare environments to date.
Using an evidence‑gap map approach, we explored how different design features—architectural layout, interior qualities, ambient conditions, social‑spatial aspects, and access to nature—relate to health and care outcomes across a wide range of inpatient settings. Architectural features dominated the literature, while areas such as palliative care, rehabilitation, and laboratory environments remain noticeably under‑represented.
The review shows a clear rise in studies focusing on patient‑centred care, reflecting a growing shift towards more humane and relational models of healthcare. We also found distinct patterns linking design elements to outcomes: clinical outcomes were most often associated with ambient factors such as light, acoustics, and air quality, while qualitative research frequently explored experiences of person‑centred care.
Overall, the study highlights both the progress made and the gaps that still need attention, offering a stronger evidence base to guide future research, design practice, and policy.