The environment in which healthcare is delivered can profoundly impact a patient’s well-being, extending far beyond the clinical treatment itself. A new exhibition opening in , at the V&A Dundee in Scotland, titled “Maggie’s: Architecture that Cares,” highlights this connection, celebrating the 30th anniversary of Maggie’s, a charity dedicated to designing supportive spaces for cancer patients.
For decades, hospital design often prioritized functionality and hygiene, sometimes at the expense of creating a welcoming or comforting atmosphere. Traditional hospital layouts could feel institutional, isolating, and even intimidating. However, a growing body of thought, and now showcased in exhibitions like this one, recognizes the vital role architecture plays in the healing process. The exhibition will feature the work of globally recognized architects – including Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, Richard Rogers, Norman Foster, and Benedetta Tagliabue – who have designed Maggie’s centres, offering a haven of emotional, practical, and psychological support to those affected by cancer.
Maggie Keswick Jencks, the designer and writer who founded Maggie’s after her own cancer diagnosis, envisioned spaces that would help people “to not lose the joy of living in the fear of dying.” This core philosophy is central to the design of each centre. Each Maggie’s centre is deliberately unique, tailored to its specific location, yet all adhere to the same fundamental brief: to provide a supportive and uplifting environment. This approach contrasts sharply with the often-standardized designs of traditional hospitals.
The exhibition at V&A Dundee isn’t simply a display of aesthetically pleasing buildings. It delves into the underlying principles that make these spaces effective. It will bring together the perspectives of those who directly benefit from these centres – patients and staff – alongside the insights of the architects themselves. This holistic approach aims to demonstrate how thoughtful design can positively influence a patient’s experience and, potentially, their outcome.
The importance of a hospitable hospital environment extends beyond cancer care centres. The architecture of any healthcare facility directly impacts its long-term viability. Every detail, from the layout of waiting rooms to the amount of natural light, has consequences. Thoughtful design can reduce stress, improve communication between patients and healthcare providers, and even contribute to faster recovery times.
The V&A Dundee exhibition is part of a broader 2026 program that also includes “Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show” (opening ) and “Design & Disability” (opening ). “Catwalk” will chart the evolution of fashion shows over a century, while “Design & Disability” will showcase the contributions of Disabled, Deaf, and neurodivergent people to design history. The inclusion of these exhibitions alongside “Maggie’s: Architecture that Cares” underscores the V&A Dundee’s commitment to exploring the intersection of design and human experience.
The architectural approach taken by Maggie’s centres is notable. The centres are designed with care and are completely unique to their setting. The exhibition will likely showcase how these centres utilize natural materials, incorporate gardens and outdoor spaces, and prioritize comfortable, home-like environments. These elements are all intended to create a sense of calm and control for patients navigating a challenging time.
The exhibition’s timing coincides with a growing awareness of the need for patient-centered care. This approach emphasizes the importance of considering the patient’s emotional, psychological, and social needs, in addition to their physical health. Architecture that supports this holistic approach can play a crucial role in creating a truly healing environment.
V&A Dundee, Scotland’s design museum, is open daily except Tuesdays, from to 10:00 – 17:00, and daily from to 10:00 – 17:00. Admission to “Maggie’s: Architecture that Cares” is free, running from to .
