Redefining architectural solutions for mental health: Issue 001 : leveraging biophilic design

Abstract

The connection between architectural design and mental health is significant, yet largely goes unrecognized. Although hospitals are capable of helping treat mental health, an argument can be made that, in many cases, these hospitals are not designed with the intent to treat/rehabilitate mental health and are far more equipped to treat physical ailments around the United States. Using a focused lens on design that helps combat mental illness, this thesis will explore how biophilic architecture can improve mental health. Biophilic design offers a variety of solutions that can be beneficial to mental health if done correctly and, in the right environment. Many studies from Stephen Kellert and Terrapin Bright Green have highlighted the positive impact biophilic design has within the built environment, including stress reduction and improvement in cognitive performance. This thesis is driven by a series of questions that ask, by utilizing the principles of biophilic design, can architecture be used as a new source in combatingmental health? How effective can biophilic design be in the overall healing and psyche of an individual or group of people healing from depression, trauma, and anxiety? I am approaching this topic with the end goal being to propose the development of a new model of mental healthcare facility that is leveraging biophilic design principles to treat mental health than a standard hospital more effectively. The healthcare facility would provide the benefits that an individual would receive from a hospital or residential treatment program but in a more beneficial setting of healing.