‘MKII’ Armoured Cable Headphones – Prinses Maxima Centre

The Prinses Maxima Center in Utrecht, Netherlands is one of the nations top hospitals battling cancer in young children. Unlike the regular intimidating surroundings of most hospitals, the centre takes a different approach by creating a warm, vibrant environment. The centre is viewed by patients as more of a home; where children can play, discover and learn whilst having treatment.

Special lab environments exist where patients are able to use dummy equipment such as an MRI Scanner. MRI’s can be scary for even adults so allowing the children to play and experiment with a dummy version can help make them far more comfortable when experiencing the real thing.

Heijmerink Wagemakers were tasked with designing an audio seating area in the hospital. Created as a relaxation and learning zone the seating was developed to incorporate audio players and headphones built into the unit by MAV Techniek.

The MKII’s were chosen because they offer a rugged solution that is also very comfortable when on the head. The result is a very interesting installation with an amazing objective.