PAIWA : A REHAB CENTER FOR DRUG ADDICTS

Abstract

Basic theme of Thesis revolves around reclaiming a rehabilitation centre for drug addicts, in line with the basic concept of PAIWAND; inserting (a shoot or twig) as a graft, as highlighted in the title of the project. Around 6.7 million people use drugs in Pakistan, which implies that 1 out of each 13 people in the country are affected by this menace. Punjab has the highest figure of such a population (and so does the drug use rate); contrarily, the number of quality and substantial rehabilitation programs and centres is not compatible! This thesis aims at re-visualization of an existing Government facility (Rehab center of Pakistan Anti-Narcotics Force) by reinforcing and grafting their basic concept of therapeutic community with therapeutic programs and mindful spaces; thus, "Therapeutic Architecture". The negative areas of this existing centre will be studied to find missing links between the user (an addict),therapy programs and nature/ambience of spaces providing recovery; restoration of user's mental/physical health. Main goal of the thesis revolves around man attaining a physical/emotional balance through the three stages of a rehabilitation program. The designed spaces in the proposed centre are likely to assist under treatment drug Affectees to re-discover their lost identities through an "ARCHITECTURAL PAIWAND". Site is located at the border of the historical city (Rawalpindi) and the Language of Facade would take inspiration from the rich heritage in contemporary terms; hence making it a statement of the city.