INTERIOR DESIGN IN MEDITERRANEAN HEALTHCARE FACILITIES: Sustainable materials and Nanomaterials

Over the past few decades, the imminent threat of climate change and its effects, has shown that many of the materials that were being used in constructions globally, and also in the Mediterranean Basin, tend to accelerate this problem. Furthermore, according to research data, the exposure to hazardous substances that are contained in a great number of materials, could lead to various diseases and disabilities. The time has come to re-evaluate the materials we use and transform architecture into a field that will provide better and safer living conditions. In order to make the transition impactful, we must first reconsider the design of healthcare facilities. It would be safe to say that through the use of proper materials, the ‘’mission’’ of the healthcare system expands its horizon far beyond the traditional sense of medical attendance and might lead us into a total reconstruction of the environment most people live and work. Consequently, this paper will be examining different types of sustainable materials and nanomaterials for the interior spaces of health facilities, for a more sustainable development approach.