Healing Environments for Cancer Care: Toward a Patient-Centered Design Guideline for Inpatient Settings

ObjectivesThis study proposes an evidence-based design guideline for oncology inpatient rooms that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs of cancer patients.BackgroundCancer inpatients frequently experience long hospital stays with emotional vulnerability and clinical stress. Growing evidence suggests environmental design can shape patient experience, comfort, and recovery. Yet, current literature lacks an integrated framework for the spatial and sensory needs of this population.MethodA systematic literature review was conducted across Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed. From an initial pool of 1004 records, 36 studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were thematically analyzed and interpreted using established healthcare design theories.ResultsThe synthesis coalesced a wide range of findings into five core thematic domains: (a) the patient's personal sphere of privacy, control, and identity; (b) the social dimension of balancing solitude with connection; (c) the sensory environment of nature, art, and acoustic well-being; (d) the integration of embedded safety and hygiene; and (e) a culture of responsive and participatory design. The analysis reveals a critical tension between clinical necessity (e.g., infection control) and psychological well-being (e.g., avoiding isolation), highlighting the need for integrated solutions.ConclusionsThe physical environment is an active agent in the cancer care experience. This review presents a comprehensive, patient-centered design framework translating empirical evidence into practical strategies. Despite study design limitations, the findings emphasize creating adaptable, psychologically supportive environments for patients' evolving needs. The proposed guideline is a foundation for future design standards and evidence-driven practice in oncology care.