Mary Chernoff's journey in interior design is a testament to the power of following your passions, even when they seem unexpected. Her story begins with a degree in languages, literature, and linguistics, which led her to a brief stint in advertising. But it was her accidental entry into the world of interior design that truly captivated her heart. What started as a way to utilize her creative skills evolved into a dream job, with a focus on healthcare spaces.
Chernoff's first project, the Columbia Tower at Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, British Columbia, set the tone for her career. This project, completed in 1992, was a significant milestone, but it was just the beginning of her long-standing relationship with the hospital.
Over the years, Chernoff has worked on numerous hospital projects in B.C. and beyond, but the Royal Columbian holds a special place in her heart. The story of this hospital is like the story arc of her career, with each project bringing new challenges and opportunities. One of the key changes she has witnessed in hospital design over the last three decades is the increased focus on patient experience. While infection control and functionality remain crucial, spaces now incorporate views, natural light, and biophilic design elements.
The concept of biophilia, people's innate desire to connect with nature, has become a cornerstone of modern hospital design. Chernoff notes that this wasn't a widely understood concept when the Columbia Tower was built, but it has since become a fundamental principle in healthcare spaces. Studies have shown that exposure to nature can improve health, leading to decisions like ensuring every room in the new tower has a window with a view and using natural-looking materials and colors.
Chernoff's work on the Jim Pattison Acute Care Tower, which opened for patients in May, is a testament to her commitment to creating spaces that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and emotionally comforting. The main lobby, for instance, features beautiful high ceilings with wooden beams and concrete pillars adorned with Indigenous artwork, honoring the land and its people.
Another significant change Chernoff has observed is the increased consultation with people who use the hospital. This has led to more personalized spaces, such as larger rooms with extra storage for families and better HVAC systems that accommodate practices like smudging. Chernoff believes that making spaces more comfortable and inclusive requires listening to the needs of those who will use them.
Looking back on her career, Chernoff reflects on the 'most wonderful career' she could have asked for. From her new apartment in New Westminster, she can see the Royal Columbian Hospital every day, a constant reminder of her impact on the lives of countless patients and healthcare professionals. Her journey is a powerful reminder that passion and purpose can intertwine in unexpected ways, leading to a career that is both fulfilling and transformative.
