THERAPEUTIC DESIGN


The reception and waiting area are protected yet clearly visible, smell of pine, and there are forest, bird, and water sounds.


nature of their use, there are still valuable comparisons to be made. These well- known charities afford an uplifted patient user experience by investing in high- quality building materials, furniture, art, and biophilic design, creating a welcoming and therapeutic experience for patients and relatives of those affected by cancer. Imagine if a charity invested 30% of


the construction value to uplift places of safety? What could be the possibilities and the impact on health benefits? What impact would this have on staff wellbeing and wider patient users? These are high stress and extremely emotional places accessed by the police, health workers, care givers, and family. Arcadis’s emotional mapping tool has highlighted the critical moments as patients access these areas which would benefit from high investment. Arcadis mental health experts have


been working with NHS Trusts designing such facilities for over 10 years, in the process gaining valuable experience co-designing with experts by experience.


Hearing first-hand accounts from several perspectives of both patients and staff has enabled us to gain valuable insights into their lived experiences. Together with evidence-based design and human-centric considerations such as neurodiversity, the senses, proxemics, and biophilia, we are discussing what the possibilities are to humanise and enhance the Place of Safety. By focusing on the patient user


experience and the senses, we look to infuse it with nature, art, visual interest, and choice, giving patients some control and autonomy over their environment – something which has also been associated with reduced aggression. We will now discuss what the benefits could be, such as achieving a more rapid de-escalation and an overall less traumatic experience for all, illustrating these via our ‘concept’ space, Halycon.


‘Halcyon’ The name Halycon – derived from the eponymous Greek mythological bird


which had the power to calm rough ocean waves in order to nest, is associated with gentleness, calm, and tranquility. The private, yet visually permeable building is aimed at reassuring patient users about their care upon the point of arrival. Manicured landscaping on arrival not only provides biophilic visual interest, but also promotes a sense of care and quality. Dual, symmetrical, pitched roofs are domestic in scale, giving a less institutional feel. Horizontal lines in design have been known to promote calm, tranquility, and trust, a characteristic reflected throughout. The limited architectural palette is simple to understand visually, with natural finishes such as wood and natural stone pattern. Wood in particular is an important material, which provides an organic tactile experience. The grains and organic patterns in wood reflect back to our evolutionary past, and have a soothing effect on our wellbeing, while providing a mindful experience of the present moment.5


Real wood panelling in areas


such as the public spaces, and robust wood effect panelling in patient bedrooms, could provide sanctuary, fostering psychological comfort.


Diffused lighting


Diffused lighting and a clear pathway lead the way to the front door, where a non- reflective glazed side panel offers a view inside, showing the patient where the next part of their journey will be. The reception and waiting area are protected yet clearly visible, smell of pine, and there are forest, bird, and water sounds; indeed there is some evidence to suggest that forest sounds and smells lower anxiety and stress levels.6,7 There is a sculptural form ahead –


organic in shape, made of wood, and calming; a place to retreat to, a comfy seat for a few minutes; the texture of the wood feels homely and warm. For all, and especially neurodivergent patient users, (one in seven people are neurodivergent in the UK),8


building in organic forms


Building in organic forms resembling trees, images of trees, or a view of a tree, has been evidenced to improve wellbeing.


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resembling trees, images of trees, or a view of a tree, has been evidenced to improve wellbeing. In addition to feature lighting, diffused lighting within all areas of the building as standard is designed to meet circadian rhythm requirements. Known for its effects on the hypothalamus in controlling melatonin, and affecting sleep quality, and essential for wellbeing, this is embedded into the design. Local controls mean that lighting can also be tailored to suit individual needs. This is particularly important for staff spending extended periods of time in the facility, enabling them to deliver better care. Roof lighting within deeper circulation areas helps orientate the time of day and weather outside. Circulation spaces are generous, and thus more likely to meet the needs of individuals’ proxemics. Solid acoustic ceiling tiles throughout and timber baffles work together to prevent reverberations.


NOVEMBER 2024 | THE NETWORK


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