Software used- Revit, AutoCAD, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, SketchUp
The space is designed keeping comfort and accessibility in mind. Since a large percentage of the user group may have limited to no independent mobility, each space is designed so as to accommodate wheelchairs and stretchers, including fire safety methods. Given that the user group may have diminished sensory receptors, spaces are designed for enhanced engagement of all senses, in order to create a comfortable environment.
Design decisions were made based on qualitative and quantitative findings obtained through primary and secondary data. Analysing principles of cognitive psychology for sensory design and philosophies like phenomenology were also an integral part of the design thinking process.
Intensive research was carried out in order to understand the 5W's of the design. Understanding stakeholders at every level was of utmost importance. This is allowed me to empathize with the primary user group (patients) as well as secondary (families of patients) and tertiary (staff and personnel) user groups.
Quantitative research showed the number of people that required palliative and hospice care. Qualitative research showed the features and design elements that were required in order to create the desired space. This was carried out in the form of literature reviews and case studies.
The next step of the process was to define a design premise and then come up with a strategy to design around that premise. Both the premise and strategy were decided upon keeping in mind the requirements of the user group as well as the limitations they have with respect to sensory responses, mobility & emotional state of being.
Zoning and massing were also carried out on the same grounds. Privacy and comfort of the patients was prioritized, while keeping in mind the auxiliary functions required to keep the site functioning smoothly.
The site was planned based on levels of access. Visitor access was kept to as little of the site as possible, so as to maintain privacy. Adhering to the design premise, enclosed spaces were planned around open ones.
The typical floor plan on the left shows the arrangement of patient bedrooms around a common, social space. Orienting private spaces around communal ones is done in order to promote interaction between residents and decrease emotional and situational stresses
Building section through (L to R) patient spaces, courtyards, staff spaces and mortuary.
Building section through (L to R) terraces, patient rooms, courtyards and staff soaces.
A floor wise split axonometric view that shows the vertical placement of masses and the ratio of solids to voids across the site.
Orthographic building section through staff and patient spaces.
