Thesis - USYD - Within Somatic Concatenation I The Brain and Mind Centre I Sydney

Within Somatic Concatenation

THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY

M-ARCH. MARC6000 GRADUATION THESIS - HEADPLACE

TUTOR - ROSE MCENERY

COORDINATOR - DUANFANG LU

ANAISHA GAUTAM - SID 510553014

PORTFOLIO AND THESIS- 08.06.2023

Contents

• Acknowledgement of Country

• Journey in Ambiguity

• Deinstitutionalizing

• Precedents – Research Institutes

o Johnson Wax Administration Building and Research Tower - Frank Lloyd Wright -1939

o Salk Institute for Biological Studies - California, U.S - Louis I. Kahn – 1959

o National Center for Atmospheric Research - IM Pei’s Mesa Lab in Colorado – 1961

o The Royal Children’s Hospital - Melbourne - Babcock & Brown, Billard Leece and Bates Smart Architects. 2005.

o Queensland Brain Institute - Wardle with Wilson Architects – 2007

o Translational Research Institute – Queensland Wilson Architects + Donovan Hill – 2013

• Proposal

o Site

o Bond and Bonds Industries

o Abstract

o Concept

o Site Master Plan

o Vision

o The Forecourt

o The Street

o Consultation

o Headplace

Journey in Ambiguity Acknowledgement of Country

“I would like to acknowledge the Gadigal people that are the Traditional Custodians of this land. would also like to pay my respects to the Elders both past and present and extend that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders who are present in these lands, through my proposal.”

The history of mental health facilities has been characterized by uncertainty and ambiguity. In Australia, mental illness was initially managed through a custodial framework, involving detention and deprivation of liberty as a form of punishment. Asylums emerged across Europe, but they were plagued by cruel conditions and lacked proper treatment options.

In Australia, mental health services were established with the arrival of convicts in 1788. Asylums were later established to separate the criminal population from the mentally ill. These facilities were marked by untrained male attendants and inadequate medical involvement. In the mid-nineteenth century, the concept of medical treatment gained recognition, leading to the moral treatment era that aimed for more humane conditions and rehabilitation.

In 1951 chlorpromazine was discovered, which revolutionized the treatment of schizophrenia. Advancements in medication and cognitive therapy between 1950 and 1970 offered hope for patients and led to the possibility of discharge from asylums.

The Richmond Report in 1981 advocated for deinstitutionalization and emphasized the rights of the mentally ill to live in the community. However, the process was poorly funded and coordinated, resulting in homeless and untreated individuals. Subsequent inquiries further addressed the rights and treatment of people with mental illness, promoting community care as the preferred model. In general, mental health facilities have evolved from custodial systems to emphasize treatment, rehabilitation, and community-based care. Medications like chlorpromazine have played a crucial role, but challenges remain in coordination, and protecting the rights of those affected by mental illness. Continued efforts are needed to improve the quality of care and support provided.

Deinstitutionalizing

A concept in care is Deinstitutionalization talked about since 1970 when people with mental illness move out of hospitals and into the homes in the community. By changing the environment to local area settings, deinstitutionalization advances freedom, cultivates a feeling of having a place, and further develops by and large psychological wellness results.

At the core of deinstitutionalization is the acknowledgment that people with psychological sickness can lead satisfying lives when made to inhabit in a familiar yet involved network. By giving local area based emotional wellness administrations, like directing, treatment, and mental consideration, people can get more customized and custom-made help that tends to meet their expectations. Individuals can access care in familiar surroundings and receive ongoing support from their local communities, allowing for the development of stronger therapeutic relationships. This is a shift from a hospital-centric model to a community-centric approach.

“Deinstitutionalization means helping people with mental illness outside of hospitals and giving them personalized care in their communities. “ Deinstitutionalization could make mental health better and give people a better life. It would give better treatment, be cheaper, and help people be more independent. We can make a society that helps everyone feel welcome and supported, no matter what their mental health is by doing things in our community and making sure people have good places to live.2

A Search for Alternatives

Research Institutes

People collaborate to improve health outcomes for communities

Over the course of generations, education in the field of Health Sciences has traditionally placed significant emphasis on the clinical phase, where students would actively engage with patients at their bedside. As a result, senior medical students now find themselves joining interns, residents, and attending physicians at the patients’ bedside, while research fellows in disciplines such as biochemistry, pathology, bacteriology, and biophysics have become increasingly prevalent within the hospital staff.

This change in emphasis has led to an overall elevation of professional activity at all levels, driven by the growth of specialization and an increased focus on higher levels of professionalism in technologist training. Naturally, this trend has generated a demand for more extensive facilities, both for didactic training and research purposes.

The increasing integration of medical education with clinical practice has reshaped the landscape of healthcare institutions. The once-prevailing model of students primarily engaging in direct patient care during their clinical phase has given way to a more diversified approach. While senior medical students continue to gain valuable experience at the bedside, the presence of research fellows specializing in various scientific disciplines has expanded the knowledge base within hospital teams.

The symbiotic relationship between medical care schools and closely affiliated hospitals and phychiatric care fosters a unique set of oppertunities. To create effective programs, it is imperative to analyze and understand the organizational dynamics of both entities. By closely examining their operations, a cohesive approach Is developed that optimizes the integration of education and clinical practice.

The emphasis on clinical training has been supplemented by increased focus on the basic sciences and research. These changes have necessitated the expansion and enhancement of educational facilities within hospitals and Phychiatric care Institutes. 3

Architecture Meets Science

Johnson Wax Administration Building and Research Tower

Frank Lloyd Wright -1939

One of the Initial new utopian ideal for progressive communities (unity temple) this building was designed during the great depression for the company HC Jonson and Sons inc The building also greatly emphasized the elements of collaboration and research as an enthusiastic approach to research laboratory spaces. The research laboratory was an essential response to post-war development ideals. The administrative building was developed on the concepts of integrating organic, garden and well-lit spaces giving an illusion of plantation of tree-like columns within a walled garden. The research being a symbol of progression in tech and research, it was visioned to be within a tower going up in the air. A concept of transparency was envisioned through the inner skin of the tower glazing and the outer leaf of glass. Overall the building implies one of the key significant interests for spaces that focus on the elements of community, science and research.

Tectonic Poetics

Salk Institute for Biological Studies California, U.S Louis I. Kahn - 1959

Architect Louis I. Kahn designed the research center that would embody durability, simplicity, and functionality. The resulting masterpiece, known as the Salk Institute, would not only provide a cutting-edge space for scientific exploration but also stand as a testament to architectural brilliance.

Situated in the picturesque location of La Jolla, California, the Salk Institute sought to create an environment conducive to groundbreaking scientific discoveries. To achieve this, Kahn envisioned open and spacious laboratory spaces that could easily adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of scientific research. These laboratory areas were meticulously planned to foster collaboration and innovation, allowing scientists to push the boundaries of knowledge.

Kahn’s design for the Salk Institute took inspiration from the concept of a secluded intellectual community. The institute was divided into three distinct zones, each facing the vast expanse of the ocean to the west. Initially conceived as twin towers with a garden nestled between them, the design evolved into two elongated blocks that mirrored each other across a grand plaza. This alteration added a sense of balance and harmony to the overall composition, further enhancing the visual appeal of the institute.

Since its inauguration in 1965, the Salk Institute has stood as a testament to the enduring brilliance of Kahn’s architectural vision. The laboratories have remained largely unaltered, a testament to their thoughtful design and functionality.

The Salk Institute is not merely a research center but a work of art. With its enduring architectural beauty and dedication to scientific progress, the Salk Institute stands as a symbol of human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

Monastic

National Center for Atmospheric Research

IM Pei’s Mesa Lab in Colorado - 1961

In 1960, Robert C. Seamans Jr., the head of the National Science Establishment (NSF), selected Boulder, Colorado, as the area for a unused investigate research facility to dwell and investigate on the topic of earth’s air. This research facility was to be the National Center for Air Investigate (NCAR), an intrigue center where researchers from different areas would work together to ponder the environment. The development of NCAR was a noteworthy venture sponsored by a critical state venture, and the plan was basic to its victory.

NCAR was designed to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and to function as a self-directed community of peers. However, the isolated towers of the building reflected the founder’s vision of individual projects rather than collaborative ones. The author also discusses the founding of the High Altitude Observatory (HAO), which was established by the same founder as NCAR, and its architectural design. The HAO building was designed with simplicity and informality in mind and comfortably accommodated its scientific staff. The author concludes that while architecture can reflect scientific visions, it must also consider the practical realities of contemporary scientific research.

Children’s Street

The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, Australia, the building features an indoor street called “Main Street,” which connects various departments and services, and is designed to be child-friendly with play areas, interactive displays, and colorful artwork. The hospital was built using new ideas developed by RCH and the Department of Health and Human Services which focus on caring for families.

The building is located in Royal Park and looks like the colors of the nearby trees and nature. Using innovative and evidence-based design principles, the RCH aims to promote a restorative and healing environment for children and their families. The hospital’s construction has been completed, providing public amenities such as a large playground and large grassy areas for respite. Ron Billard, BLP Director, has expressed his excitement for the Royal Children’s Hospital project to be recognized in these prestigious awards, as it is an international exemplar for innovative and transformative design, harmonizing perfectly with its parkland setting.

The Royal Children’s Hospital - Melbourne Babcock & Brown, Billard Leece and Bates Smart Architects. 2005.

Vivid Mind Research

Queensland Brain Institute - 2007 Wardle with Wilson Architects

A vibrant and dynamic experience is envisioned and cherished which is on account of collaborative research philosophy practiced at this esteemed facility. Inside the centre, all scientific disciplines are well integrated, and together with the professional knowledge of researchers and scientists unravel the complexity and mysteries surrounding human brain. An example of scientific community jointly contributing towards the common goal.

Atmosphere in the building is well accentuated by the curved perimeter road that surrounds it. Further, the harmonious southern portion of the campus is found to be well integrated with the rest of the existing University structure giving an overall feeling of a cohesive ecosystem. The architecture design per se is a well thought amalgamation of glazed elements, colours forms curvilinear paths and materials which present a promising look of a research oriented centre. An environment and ecosystem is thus created that abodes well for exchange of ideas and inter disciplinary dialogues.

The central focus is to meet the research objectives, which demand seamless connection between various faculties, laboratories and offices housed in the building complex. The prominent display of laboratories are characteristic of transparent and open conduct of business. The circular path which well connects all the buildings facilitates general visibility of the activities being undertaken at the different research faculties. Further the integration of research activities with the environment of interactive space, stimulates the knowledge sharing, sparkles the curiosity in exploration which is so essential in the arena of scientific investigations and explorations. The research ecosystem so created attracts individuals to vibrantly participate and meet the objectives of their scientific journey.

“A large building with a strong identity, this crucible for scientific research and discovery is an exemplary workplace where visual and physical connectivity embodies a collaborative culture.”(8)

Collaboration

Translational Research Institute Queensland Wilson Architects + Donovan Hill - 2013

The Translational Research Institute (TRI) was designed as a complex of interconnected spaces that would foster a community of researchers. It caters to a variety of communities, from the intimate to the expansive, acknowledging the diversity of people who make up TRI. The building offers an environment that promotes both intense scientific research and opportunities for collaboration. Unlike the typical functional and featureless laboratory, the TRI is designed to be a place where people who work at the highest level of scientific discovery can feel comfortable.

The building’s careful construction imparts a crafted finesse to an industrial setting that has certain expectations. The outdoor area, framed within its large window, provides a civic space that is both a respite from the intensity of research and an addition to the communal places network. The exterior and interior spaces are connected and deliberately blurred, creating a human-scaled environment despite the immense size of the facility, which encourages occupation and perambulation. The high-quality finish throughout the building reflects the esteemed status of science.

Green Areas

Transit Infra

Residential G+2

Library G+3

Existing Structure

Chinese Consulate

Church Street

Parking G+7

Head Place

Mallett street Park

Site

The site is located in the inner western suburb of Camperdown in Sydney, Australia. Replies in close proximity to the esteemed Royal Prince Alfred Teaching Hospital, and the University of Sydney campus. There are predominantly low rise residential buildings that surround the site, and on the eastern side there is a seven story parking structure, a Chinese Consulate and low rise residential.

Site

Site

CBD

Redfern Station

Camperdown

The University Of Sydney Campus

Key University Commercial Buildings Neighbourhood Buildings

Bond and Bonds Industries

Not all places are designed with keeping human behavior and phycology in mind.

Bond and Bonds Industries Ltd. is the Mallett Street Campus at the University of Sydney. Back in the 1920s, Bonds Industries took the initiative to construct a majority of the buildings on this campus to cater to industrial and manufacturing needs. The designs were entrusted to the highly esteemed Sydney architects, Robinson and Marks. This campus, comprised of former industrial buildings, serves as a testament to the early growth stages of an Australian textile company that continues to enjoy recognition and prominence even today.

Among the architectural features that make the Mallett Street Campus noteworthy are the Stripped Classical buildings A, B, C, D, F, and G, constructed during the 1920s. These structures possess architectural significance in terms of their overall massing, fenestration patterns, and the meticulously preserved details on their facades. Collectively, these buildings contribute to the urban design aesthetics of the campus, seamlessly blending with and enhancing the adjacent Camperdown Park.Building D within the campus holds moderate technical significance due to the survival of elements from its original timber post and beam structure. This interior space provides valuable insights into the construction techniques of that era and offers a glimpse into the architectural practices employed during the building’s creation.

The 1920s Stripped Classical Electrical Substation found on the campus holds its own moderate architectural significance. Its exterior, which remains well-preserved, showcases the distinct characteristics of this architectural type and serves as a testament to the technological advancements and design principles of the time.

However, perhaps one of the most visually prominent and socially significant features of the Mallett Street Campus is the mural known as the ‘Chesty Bond.’ Painted on the west and north faces of the tower overlooking Building A. This building shows the history of Bonds Industries and how architecture has changed over time. The campus is a mix of old and new buildings that show how the University of Sydney and the area around it have changed over time. It has interesting history and architecture. 10

The discussions around humanistic endeavours in psychiatric care are somewhat fragmented, because of lacking support and understanding from the government and institutions. The human angle of psychiatric care can be greatly enhanced by Architecture, given its potential and social responsibility. However due to the fact that architecture literature in the realm of healthcare is lacking finer details, there is a pressing need for more collaborative and dedicated approach. The architecture theory in the arena of healthcare, and particularly in psychiatric care, should resonate compassionate and holistic environment for patients.

The medical ambiguity and overall apprehension is a major obstacle for the individuals reaching out to seek the treatment. Coupled with above, the uncertainty and the stress about possible recovery can exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety, making it profoundly difficult for the patient to have and sustain optimistic mind set.

While acknowledging the importance of the need to tackle medical ambiguity in the arena of neurological disorders and mental health, the Brain and Mind Centre is one such Institute which stands as a beacon of hope and awareness. It is situated within a building of historical significance, and serves as a hub for treatment, teaching and research. It does play a vital role in treatment of neurological disorders in collaboration with Headspace, an esteemed organisation that is dedicated to taking care and nurturing mental well-being of young population. Despite it being an impressive facility and given the size and fame of the centre, there is definitely a scope for improvement when there are concerns of vibration and collaborative integration to make it a cutting edge force.

In response to above concerns, a proposal in the form of thesis is presented, that seeks to create an infrastructure that is inclusive and essentially inviting. The objective is to replace the notion of individual or limited ownership of site, with a comfortable space which cultivates the culture of integration and care. The design envisages development of an ecosystem which is accommodating, caring and supportive, there by allowing individuals to feel sense of ease when seeking treatment for condition which is difficult to grasp. Further the supportive network and caring community can greatly reduce the withdrawal symptoms and accentuate the recovery.

While having and establishing a supportive environment are important, it is crucial to understand and implement a culture that gives due importance to mental health and well being as well as prioritised care. The educational initiative to raise awareness can help accomplish and bridge the understanding gaps between mental health conditions and the treatment available. It needs to be appreciated that both physical and emotional aspects need to be handled holistically to resolve the medical ambiguity and promote recovery. The Brain and Mind Centre in Sydney, Australia, is an esteemed and reputed Institute which is committed to progress the understanding and treatment of complex mental health and neurological disorders. Making the place inviting and inclusive are at the fore front of the centre’s agenda, and their performance and results bear testimony to their unwavering dedication and service to affected individuals A State of the Art Institue Sydney.

Key Design Rules

Concept

The concept that is portrayed can be assimilated by briefly dividing the Brief into following portions, viz. Consultation, Community, and collaboration among various stakeholders. The fundamental guiding principles for the design however, remain consistent throughout the build structure.

Flexible

Site Master-Plan

Spine

Brain and Mind Research Labs and Imaging

Existing BMC

Building C&D BMC to be Demolished

Mallett street Park

Existing Solar and Circulation Analysis

Brain and Mind Research Labs and Imaging

Existing BMC New HeadSpace Building

The Street

Vision of an Institute

Key Design Rules

Park

Solar Envelope for frontal scape

Demolition for opening more frontal Scape

Vision

The architectural design of the building is such that balance is struck between establishing it as a cutting edge facility and at the same time ensuring a sense of community living that is boundless for both patients and public at large. An effort has been made to ensure seamless transition from public spaces that encourages interactions to private consultation areas that ensure privacy. A series of columns adorn the building for sad to give a face lift and enhance the aesthetics there by making it state of art.

The Forecourt

The forecourt acts as a transitional space for communal space general public patients and researchers to interact in... The place can also be used as an exhibition space, a casual gathering space for get-togethers and group activities.

Level 6

Level 5

Level 4

Level 3

Level 2

The Street

The area beyond the forecourt, gradually transcends into semi-private science street, that offers relaxing environment for individuals to visually acclimatize with surroundings, and keenly observe the activities which are taking place in each of the building’s sections. The build structure in fact serves as a space to present the essence of a scientific community, which includes the research and teaching aspects.

Roof

New Headplace

L6 Shared Seating Between Multiple Owners

L5 Shared Seating

L3&4 - Flexible Spaces for Interaction

Visual Connection

L-2 Shared seating between Multiple Building owners Lift and Staircase Core

Lift and Staircase Core

Existing Headplace

Existing BMC

Existing BMC Mallett Street

The Street

Existing BMC Forecourt

The Street Facade

Consultation

In essence, the approach followed is challenging the concept of widely accepted in ( AHFG) and venturing into the cold and vacant spaces, that are uncharted territories.

Perceptions of Human Body

Further, the focus is shifted towards examining the unique behavioral patterns express by individual, which have done so vide my curiosity and awareness. The adaptability and anticipation of the modular Le Carbusier is symbolised in the initial diagram, which then seemly transitions between different measurements of harmonious nature that caters to perception and scale imagined by humans patient areas.

Cold White Spaces

Headplace Meeting Room

Headplace Visual Connection to the Past

Headplace Consultation Room Perception Analysis

Standard Typical AHFG Consultation Rooms

General Interview Room GP Room

Consultation Room -Psychiatric Care

Mapping Grid on 4:3 Ratio White Room Perception Analysis

Framing the Module New Module

The ecosystem with the patient experiences, definitely has the healing and therapeutic effect, as it successfully offers options, fosters introspection, provides social support, remove stressors and enhances the feeling of well being, hope and relaxation. The significance of well designed spaces in the build structure is so very important, and needs to be recognised by both the medical and psychiatric institutes. IMAGE

Mapping the Module New Module Plan

HeadPlace

A seamless and gentle transition is provided between different levels in the building -allows for maintaining transparency as well as have the option for privacy. Thus, a well designed transition facilitates the development of communal spaces prepared for consultations, and where one can maintain a sense of personal space while also engaging in discussions.

Staff Areas

Staff Areas

Consultation

Space Interconnection / Visibility

Consultation

Consultation

Community Kitchen

Gp Consultation (Clinical)

Entry Auditorium

Referencing

1. Vrklevski, Lila P., Kathy Eljiz, and David Greenfield. 2017. The Evolution and Devolution of Mental Health Services in Australia Inquiries Journal 9 (10). [online] Available at: <http://www.inquiriesjournal.com/articles/1654/ the-evolution-and-devolution-of-mental-health-services-in-austr alia> [Accessed 08 June 2023].

2. Arlin Cuncic, MA rev, Akeem Marsh, MD 2022. How Deinstitutionalization Works. Very-well mind Resource Centre. [online] Available at: < https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-deinstitutionalization-5324862#citation-2> [Accessed 08 June 2023].

3. Hospital Design and Function, Review 1964, Chapter 8 Teaching and research, Chapter 10 Modernisation and Expansion. University of Sydney Library-E Todd Wheeler FAIA. Resource Centre. Available at: <McGraw-Hill Book Company> [Accessed 08 June 2023].

4. Brian Carter Architecture in Detail Johnson Wax Administrating Building and Research Tower, Review 1998, Chapter 1 A Utopian Idea. University of Sydney Library-E Todd Wheeler FAIA. Resource Centre. Available at: <McGraw-Hill Book Company> [Accessed 08 June 2023].

5. Miranda, Carolina A. “Louis Kahn’s Salk Institute, the building that guesses tomorrow, is aging — very, very gracefully.” Los Angeles Times. November 22, 2016. [online] Available at: <https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/arts/miranda/la-et-cam-salk-institute-louis-kahn-20161107-htmlstory.html?utm_medium=website&utm_ source=archdaily.com> [Accessed 08 June 2023].

6. Dazeen Mag.Edu. 2023. -Mesa Labs- Concrete research laboratory in Boulder | [online] Available at: <https://www.dezeen.com/2019/05/18/im-pei-mesa-lab-colorado-tom -ross/> [Accessed 08 June 2023].

7. Architecture and Design.Edu. 2023. The Royal Children’s Hospital by Billard Leece Partnership and Bates Smart Architects, Melbourne| [online] Available at: <https://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/features/features-articles/the-royal-children-s-hospital-by-billard-leece-p ar> [Accessed 08 June 2023].

8. Wardle Studios. 2023. Queensland Brain Institute Comprising sequenced precast panels and window slots.: Peter Skinner – AR 105 on QBI | [online] Available at: <https://wardle.studio/projects/queensland-brain-institute/l> [Accessed 08 June 2023].

9. Wilson Architects + Donovan Hill and WATPAC, TRI. Translational Research Institute 2023. Resource Centre. [online] Available at: < https://www.tri.edu.au/tri-facility, https://www.wilsonarchitects.com.au/laboratories/ tri> [Accessed 08 June 2023].

10. The Daily Telegraph. 1920. 100 Mallett street -Bond and Bonds Industries Sydney’s industrial | [online] Available at: <https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/inner-west/ sydneys-industrial-past-to-be-saved-under-council-plans-to-heritage-list-significant-buildings/news-story/0860844933a33f71bb21241679de0e54> [Accessed 08 June 2023].