IIDA Student Design Competition 2022
Thrive
Group Project - All text was cohesively collaborated.
A modern health clinic designed to benefit the well being of those with mood disorders, substance abuse, and autism. Patient ages range from two to eighteen years old. Stress reducing elements and positive distractions radiantly fill patient occupied spaces.
Floor Plan
Materials
Reflected Ceiling Plan
Created by Elyse Rutherford
RENDERS
01
Administrative Workroom Perspective
02
Large Therapy Room
03
Check Out Perspective
04
Large Therapy Room
ABOUT
Through this renovation design, the Cleveland Behavioral Health Clinic will do exactly what it was intended to do — to help patients thrive. By including stress-reducing elements, such as positive distractions, living plants, an earthy color palette, and delicate sounds, Thrive intends to provide a calming atmosphere that fosters patient growth. Water features, a round fish tank, natural woods, and living plant walls are some specific elements that help create such an atmosphere. The Center for Health Design has identified that sounds of trickling water creates white noise that has been proven to reduce stress in patients (2008). With patient ages ranging from two to eighteen years old, fun elements are incorporated in subtle ways so as not to alienate teenagers, like round wall hangings and nature-themed wallcoverings. Because Thrive serves young people experiencing a wide range of treatments, this clinic seeks to meet the needs of each group. These needs include creating a hopeful atmosphere for those experiencing mood disorders, attending to sensory needs of those on the autism spectrum, and paying close attention to privacy for those experiencing substance abuse and eating disorders. By retaining high ceilings, ample natural light, and well-separated private spaces, these considerations shine. Lockers for patient personal belongings can be located near the entrance of the waiting room to promote convenience and a sense of personal safety. Additionally, doors in non-private areas have windows to minimize surprise interactions. Within the vital and exam rooms, patients will find excess seating for family members to allow for an adequate support system. Bariatric chairs have also been placed throughout waiting areas for inclusivity. Rather than selecting an exam chair, an exam table is preferred to respond to safety concerns regarding young children. The overall floor plan design uses numerous curves, and organically inspired furniture adorns the rooms. Together, the Center for Autism Research recommends these elements to emphasize feelings of freedom, minimize surprise run-ins throughout hallways, and simplify way finding (2016). The floor plan follows a simple loop to convey familiarity and self-awareness of one’s placement. Additionally, therapy and patient spaces are on northern exterior walls of the building to maximize access to accurate natural daylight. Similar room occupations have been grouped near each other, and the sequence of patient visits has been considered to increase efficiency for staff and convenience for patients and their families. The healing garden is also placed near the therapy rooms for convenient therapy group access and use. Lastly, the checkout is a culmination of the patient sequence since it provides a seating area for patients and other family members while one adult is at the checkout counter. The staff benefit from the design features of Thrive as well. A large break room that includes soft seating, a dining area, and storage lockers provides employees with a relaxing retreat. Intermatrix planters occupy the administrative workroom near each desk to administer nature sentiments and improve workplace productivity. To conclude, Thrive has comprehensively been designed for the well being and benefit of its patients.