When it comes to creating safe and inspiring healing spaces in healthcare design, few people are as dedicated or knowledgeable as Molly Livingstone, RID, CHID, LEED AP, NCIDQ.
Spearheading diverse healthcare projects as CPL’s Southeast Regional Interior Design Leader, her work involves curating highly efficient medical buildings that benefit staff, patients and families. To achieve this end, she guides clients through interactive visioning sessions, developing conceptual designs that reflect the “look and feel” they want their facilities to embody.
A true people person, Livingstone’s design approach is rooted in empathy. Whether she’s envisioning a cancer center, an imaging suite or a behavioral health facility, she always puts herself in patients’ shoes to glean how spaces can be improved; this critical perspective becomes her north star for every project.
“People rarely visit hospitals by choice, and the experience can often be anxiety-inducing,” Livingstone explained. “Our goal is to mitigate the stress through thoughtful design that supports—and even drives—the healing process.”
Well-versed in evidence-based design practices, she says even the smallest details can make a world of difference in creating a healing environment. For example, the right lighting temperature can help reset an individual’s circadian rhythm, augment moods and stabilize sleep patterns.
Livingstone led interior design for the 21,680 sq. ft. Jonas Hill Hospital and Behavioral Health Clinic, which emphasizes community awareness and patient dignity. Lighting design prioritized cultivating a tranquil, non-institutional atmosphere for patients, while the layout features soft hues and natural wood accents that align with comfortable theming intentions.
Livingstone’s work involves projects of varying sizes, scopes and complexities, requiring her to stay up-to-date with a myriad of public health and safety codes. She maintains several professional certifications with the American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers (AAHID) and the National Council for Interior Design Qualifications (NCIDQ), and actively engages with professional organizations such as the International Interior Design Association (IIDA).
Beyond her work at CPL, she demonstrates genuine compassion for her field by taking part in walks organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, volunteering with the American Heart Association and mentoring emerging interior designers at her local Women in Healthcare chapter.
If you asked her what she most enjoys about healthcare design, she’d talk to you about the challenge.
“The medical world is always innovating and evolving—but so is design,” Livingstone said. “The real test lies in marrying the two and adapting your technique as needed. Getting to do that is the most gratifying part of my job.”
