Date of Submission
Spring 5-8-2022
Degree Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Architecture
Department
Architecture
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Selen Okcu
Secondary Advisor
Bronne Dytoc
Abstract
How can architectural space provide a holistic approach to health and wellness through an experience that enhances the mind, body, and spirit? As Socrates said in the 4th century B.C., “the part can never be well unless the whole is well.” Holistic Health is a lifestyle and way of thinking that considers the multitude of connected aspects of wellness and recognizes the whole person: physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. This holistic outlook on health should be of major consideration when designing a space, especially while America is currently experiencing a health epidemic. What if there was a place that was designed to create healing atmospheres, educate, and enrich the health of individual lives. A place that enhances one’s well-being and rejuvenates the mind, body, and spirit. A place that provides an experience of Holistic Health. Through the analysis of existing buildings and review of the evidence-based design literature, this thesis research systematically evaluates design techniques proven to positively affect the health of occupants. The thesis design aims to synthesize these effective strategies, ranging from light to sound that improve spiritual, mental, physical health outcomes of occupants while providing healing atmospheres. The project will also bring light to the development of a new architectural program that will serve communities by offering comprehensive spatial solutions and engaging experiences to reinforce holistic health.