The Architecture of Authority
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Jade Yang
Department
CACM - Architecture
Abstract
This research aims to understand the logics of incarceration in the United States through the lens of architecture and propose a solution by investigating the relationship between spaces of confinement and the incarcerated. The first component of this research aims to reveal how the physical dimensions of spaces of confinement can inflict lasting damage to the mental health and well-being of the incarcerated. The second component of this research examines the psychological impact of architectural elements within prison environments, particularly the presence of light, ventilation, and visual stimuli. It aims to understand how access to these phenomenological elements affects the mental health and well-being of incarcerated individuals. Finally, this research will propose design solutions within a prison facility using earlier critiques of typical carceral design.
Disciplines
Architecture
The Architecture of Authority
This research aims to understand the logics of incarceration in the United States through the lens of architecture and propose a solution by investigating the relationship between spaces of confinement and the incarcerated. The first component of this research aims to reveal how the physical dimensions of spaces of confinement can inflict lasting damage to the mental health and well-being of the incarcerated. The second component of this research examines the psychological impact of architectural elements within prison environments, particularly the presence of light, ventilation, and visual stimuli. It aims to understand how access to these phenomenological elements affects the mental health and well-being of incarcerated individuals. Finally, this research will propose design solutions within a prison facility using earlier critiques of typical carceral design.