Design meets purpose in patient-first renovation for Shriners Children's Chicago

Shriners Children’s Chicago, on Chicago’s far west side, is a leading pediatric specialty hospital that provides care for children with orthopedic conditions, spinal cord injuries, cleft lip and palate, and other complex medical needs. Beyond treatment, the hospital is also focused on the emotional well-being of its young patients and their families. 

Hospital leadership wanted an updated teen lounge and billiard area that would reflect the hospital’s mission of hope and healing. The lounge needed to be tailored specifically to the needs of children and families who are navigating treatment. Shriners Chicago considered these spaces critical for therapy, family gathering and emotionally recharging, so they turned to JLL Design for a creative design solution. 

The existing billiard area—with its dark, unappealing brick façade, outdated furnishings and unattractive lighting—lacked warmth and a welcoming vibe. Without comfortable seating, long stays were discouraged, and the space was not being used. The poorly lit teen space felt busy, closed off, and outdated. Pediatric patients from across the country would be encountering these spaces, and they needed to be inviting, peaceful, functional, and happy. 

“We focus on bright and lively colors, infusing spaces with vibrant textiles while ensuring they function properly in healthcare environments and remain accessible to all.”

Christina Piper, Senior Vice President, Workplace Design Project and Development Services

Using psychology-based design, a team of JLL architects, interior designers, and branding experts set out to create a vibrant and welcoming environment that is accessible but welcoming to all. Textiles needed to be carefully selected, to consider not only the touch and the feel of the fabric, but the variety of different people that would be interacting with them. Other important considerations were how well the fabrics would function in a healthcare setting, and how they would be maintained and cleaned.

The reimagined space now features a color palette of blues, oranges and woods to create casually cool aesthetic with “undertones of happy.” Blending function and visual appeal, soft seating and other carefully selected furnishings meet strict healthcare safety standards while encouraging people to settle in and get comfortable.

“The redesigned lounge personifies how thoughtful design can positively impact the healing process for children facing serious illnesses or recovering after surgery,” said Christina Piper, Senior Vice President of Workplace Design at JLL Design. “We’re proud to have created a space where families can find comfort, kids can find joy, and care teams can feel supported.”

The transformation was so impactful that it was recently featured on Lifetime TV’s Behind the Mystery Gives Back, which was a special edition of The Balancing Act that aims to highlight extraordinary contributions to healthcare and community well-being with a focus on rare diseases, something Shriners Children’s pediatric orthopedic surgeons specialize in. The episode showcased the design process, patient testimonials, and the emotional significance of the overall finished lounge space.

The newly redesigned teen lounge aligns with JLL Research’s recent findings, which noted that social interaction and fostering community are paramount in good design. This project is a prime example of the positive effect that spaces can have on people whose lives are impacted by pediatric illness. This space isn’t just for the kids. In fact, parents now gather in the lounge while their children are in surgery or undergoing therapy.

“Since the redesign, the area has seen a huge rise in popularity with parents waiting for patients in therapy or surgery,” says Craig McGhee, Midwest Market Administrator at Shriners Children’s Chicago. “It’s now a peaceful, uplifting place that supports mental health, encourages interaction, and truly reflects the spirit of our hospital.”

Watching leaders pour their resources and hearts into a humble mission demonstrates that true leadership is not measured by scale or status, but by the willingness to serve something greater. The success of the Shriners Children’s Chicago project highlights JLL Design’s broader mission, which is to create environments that have a real impact on, and improve people’s lives.

With 600-plus designers across 65 studios in more than 30 countries, the JLL Design team manages diverse projects spanning strategy, branding and interiors and continues to shape the future of healthcare, workplace, retail and beyond. JLL Design's comprehensive approach offers end-to-end support from concept to completion. Addressing complex design challenges, the expert team ensures spaces are functional, forward-thinking, and adaptable to evolving needs.