Growing Together: A Supportive Adolescent Psychiatric Facility

This practicum is an exploration of theories and design considerations of how an interior environment can support the recovery of psychiatric adolescent patients who suffer from depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. The goal of this facility is to provide a safe, supportive and hospitable interior environment in Winnipeg, Manitoba that aids in the treatment and well-being of teens with psychosis. This supportive environment is designed around a patient-centered care model known as the collaborative problem-solving approach. The interior design incorporates strategies drawn from research on: healthcare safety and security, place-identity, supportive design and biophilic design. Unlike other treatment facilities, it also considers the needs of developing adolescents by providing residents the opportunity to attend school, develop life skills and social spaces to build relationships with others in a comfortable and welcoming environment.