SoA junior to present research on campus, state, national levels

University of Kentucky School of Architecture junior Brayden Nichols has been invited to present his research at four upcoming events-- two UK campus events, one statewide event and one national conference . He will share his research on enhancing pediatric healthcare environments through immersive and biophilic design. 

Nichols's project, titled "Exploring Positive Distractions in Pediatric Healthcare Design," emphasizes how natural elements, interactive spaces and sensory engagement can reduce stress and anxiety for young patients. Nichols will first showcase his research at the statewide Posters at the Capitol event on March 6 in Frankfort. Following that presentation, Nichols will share his research at the 2025 UK Center for Clinical and Translational Science Spring Conference on April 1 and the UK Office of Undergraduate Research's 19th annual Showcase of Undergraduate Scholars on April 30. Nichols will also present Nichols was also one of several UK College of Design students selected to present at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research in Pittsburgh on April 7-9. 

Under the mentorship of Lindsey Fay, UK College of Design associate dean for research and associate professor in the School of Interiors, and after site visits to MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital and Lexington Shriners Hospital, Nichols developed Zoo to You, a conceptual design that transforms pediatric spaces into immersive, calming environments. This research emphasizes the importance of nature-inspired, engaging spaces in healthcare settings and how architectural design can positively impact the patient experience. 

Key features of Nichols's Zoo to You design include engaging wayfinding through playful paw prints and a welcoming check-in experience with a graphic display of the featured animal friend of the month. At the end of their visit, patients receive a collectible trading card of the featured animal, serving as a portable positive distraction beyond the hospital setting. The design also integrates visually engaging play elements such as a TV area and immersive visual environmental features that accommodate children with various disabilities. Additionally, Zoo to You offers a hands-on experience where visitors can explore elements of the animal habitats, providing both education and comfort.

This is Nichols's fifth semester of research. Prior to this project, he researched single-family patient room design, exploring how architectural layouts and design strategies can improve patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.

"These opportunities allow me to present my findings and contribute to the ongoing conversation about architecture’s role in improving healthcare," Nichols said. 

Nichols is the recipient of a College of Design undergraduate research fellowship and a Chellgren Fellow.