STUDENT YOUTH CENTRE Wellness centre with recreational facilities that nourish the Mind, Body and Soul

Abstract

"I've always seen architecture as a healing art, notjust as a beautification art." This thesis intends to study the alleviating effect of architectural spaces on the human psyche by designing sensory-rich atmospheres. The objective is to explore the diverse methodologies of relieving stress in student youth, by conceiving architecture as a vessel for healing. The intent is to uplift the spirit of individuals by interweaving external stimuli such as light and shadow, wind and water with architecture. The design of spaces would be through manipulation of light, material, and scale to create a multitude of moods and ambience.2 "In the nothingness, one has at last an opportunity to shape one's own identity, to create oneself. The courage to accept despair becomes the courage to be."3 The thesis takes precedence from studies of Zen architecture in regards to nourishing the human entity by enlightenment through experience. Zen principles believe in the five elements of nature (wind, water, fire, earth and void) and how designing with these elements can help nourish the three entities of a human being i.e. mind, body and soul. The design concept resonates around the idea that stress is induced by a lack of wholeness and self-belief in one's capabilities. It can be tackled by metaphorically setting out on a journey to reclaim one's sense of peace. The notion is to attain the perception of having control over decisions and a freedom to choose, by achieving a balance between the mind, body and soul. The conception is that when all three of these aspects are satisfied, the underpinning absence of self-acceptance is fulfilled and the human entity attains a sense of harmony.4 The translation of the concept into architectural constituents would be by guiding users via vistas and paths. The mind, body and soul would be interpreted as separate units of a whole. The five elements would be translated into courtyard spaces. These discrete entities would reciprocate as a harmonious whole via linkages in the form of a central core (void courtyard), porosity in the form, and intermingling pathways. Transitional spaces would help in the interweaving of the fragmented elements into a holistic unit. Stimulation of the senses will be achieved by the use of colour, texture and patterns, to evoke positive emotions in individuals. Furthermore, intermingling the elements of nature, light, wind and water with architectural constituents to create therapeutic auras and at the same time generating opportunities for healing activities.