Enhancing Paediatric Healthcare Environments: The Role of Thermal Comfort in Patients’ and Family Well-Being

The design of paediatric healthcare environments has a profound impact on the well-being of young patients and their families. Among key environmental factors, thermal comfort plays a vital role in influencing patients’ recovery, emotional stability, and caregiver stress levels. This study explores the effects of thermal comfort in two paediatric hospitals in Lagos, Nigeria, employing a mixed-methods approach involving surveys, interviews, and on-site environmental monitoring using thermometers, hygrometers, and anemometers. Results indicate that patients in thermally stable environments (22–26°C) had hospital stays shortened by an average of 1.8 days, while 76% of caregivers reported reduced stress when thermal conditions were perceived as comfortable. Drawing from interdisciplinary perspectives in architecture, healthcare design, and environmental psychology, the study highlights critical parameters such as temperature regulation, humidity control, and indoor air quality. It further examines both passive and active design strategies, including natural ventilation, adaptive HVAC systems, and biophilic design elements. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating thermal comfort principles into paediatric healthcare design to create healing environments that enhance patients’ outcomes, improve family experiences, and support holistic well-being.