Daylight for Healing — Beyond Humans
The healing benefits of daylighting are proven on humans who recover faster with fewer complications given well-daylit environments in healthcare facilities. So why wouldn’t they provide the same benefits to animals?
Project Details
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This question was influential when Diamond Schmitt Architects of Toronto, Canada in partnership with DesignLeveL Inc. started designing the Toronto Zoo’s $19.1 million state-of-the-art Wildlife Health Centre. With more than 5,000 procedures completed each year on more than 450 animals of all species, shapes, and sizes — from small reptiles to large bears — it was paramount that the facility be designed to provide the optimal work and recovery space for wildlife healthcare workers and their patients.
The end result is an impressive 50,000 square foot facility that is the first of its kind in Canada.
If natural daylight shortens hospital stays, improves mental well-being, and reduces post-operative complications in humans, the same principles should apply to wildlife recovery. The Toronto Zoo’s Wildlife Health Centre was designed with this philosophy at its core: create an optimal healing atmosphere using full-spectrum natural light.
The zoo’s patients benefit from having plenty of daylight thanks to Advanced Glazings Ltd.’s Solera® T-R5 windows that bring full-spectrum natural light deeply into the circulation and treatment areas.
Daylight carries along the public corridor, beside treatment and observation areas.
✓ Unique Features of Canada’s First Wildlife Health Centre
- Full-Spectrum Natural Light: Solera® T-R5 windows bring natural light deeply into circulation and treatment areas
- Viewing Gallery: Visitors can watch veterinarians and healthcare workers care for their patients
- Sustainable Construction: Green building practices throughout
- Green Roof: Reduces environmental impact and provides insulation
- Bird-Friendly Glazing: Protects wildlife while maximizing daylight
- Insulated Foundation Walls: Superior thermal performance
- Heat Recovery Systems: Energy-efficient climate control
A bright upper-level passage supports staff movement and a transparent, visitor-facing care experience.
