With bold colors and four-square window patterns, the Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary, Canada, presents a striking and offbeat image. A colorful, modern composition, it resembles a stack of toy blocks and establishes a brightly illuminated setting for world-class care.

Created by Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning, the design responds directly to the needs of its young patients. "The kids told us they thought hospitals were dark and boring," recalls Milton Gardner, principal and head of Kasian's healthcare studio.

In response, architects envisioned a stimulating yet comforting feeling in the 128-bed complex. Patient rooms are large, with extensive glazing to bring daylight into all patient and treatment areas. "Views and light are very important to us philosophically," Gardner explains. "And this building has great view of the Rockies." To control glare and heat gain, the architects specified motorized Nysan roller shades from Hunter Douglas.

Many other features of the hospital also serve patients and their relatives, from its outward image to its internal organization. Overall, the facility offers an instructive case study for producing a state-of-the-art environment of care.

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