DIGITALLY ENHANCED MULTI-SENSORY ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIAL HOUSING FOR THE NEURODIVERGENT A THESIS REPORT Submitted by
AYSHWARYA SURESH 2019804003 in partial fulfillment for the award of the degree of
MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE IN GENERAL ARCHITECTURE
SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE AND PLANNING DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE ANNA UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI
APRIL-MAY 2021
ii
ANNA UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE
Certified that this Thesis titled “DIGITALLY ENHANCED MULTI-SENSORY ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIAL HOUSING FOR THE NEURODIVERGENT” is the bonafide work of AYSHWARYA SURESH (2019804003) who carried out the work under my supervision. Certified further that to the best of my knowledge the work reported herein does not form part of any other thesis or dissertation on the basis of which a degree or award was conferred on an earlier occasion on this or any other candidate.
Dr. Sitalakshmi K. R Professor and Head Department of Architecture School of Architecture and Planning Anna University Chennai – 600 025
Examiner I Date:
Ar. R. Rajeswari Assistant Professor Department of Architecture School of Architecture and Planning Anna University Chennai – 600 025
Examiner II
iii
ABSTRACT
This research is a continuation of a series of experimentations and analysis of scenariobased design and sensory approach to living spaces. The process-based guidelines and sensory parameters for architectural interventions have been identified and utilized across varying scale of Multi-Sensory Environments including Meso (Building interface), Micro (Sensory Niches) and Macro (Urban Amenities). The implementation of the design guidelines focuses on an inclusive user group that is Intellectually Disabled. The built form focuses on disambiguate navigation and ease of access without compromising on the sensory diversity. The site facilitates a natural elopement barrier due to its nested location in the Garatpur Bas valley in Haryana, India. The digital innovations and thematic provisions such as the Automated transportation and Argotour shaped the site zoning based on a grid system which is 100 meters by 100 meter as per the Street Network Disconnectedness Index (SNDi). The structural construction is based on modular elements and also applying the less conquered dimension of LEGO based construction using live-sized building blocks. The primary sensory amenity focussing on the digital intervention is the Hall of Cocoons which provides the Robogami panels for users to explore and comprehend their own sensory diversion. The 10 different housing typologies have characteristically evolved based on the user’s sensory needs and have been accustomed to the locality based on technical details. A complete Pre-occupation evaluation is enabled by means of simulation of the urban sounds for better acoustical performance.
iv
சுருக்கம் இந்த ஆராய்ச்சி ததாடர்ச்சியான சசாதனனகள் மற்றும் காட்சி அடிப்பனடயிலான வடிவனமப்பு மற்றும்
வாழ்க்னக
ததாடர்ச்சியாகும்.
இடங்களுக்கான
உணர்ச்சி
கட்டடக்கனல
வழிகாட்டுதல்கள்
மற்றும்
அணுகுமுனையின்
தனலயீடுகளுக்கான
உணர்ச்சி
அளவுருக்கள்
பகுப்பாய்வு
தசயல்முனை
தமசசா
(கட்டிட
ஆகியவற்ைின்
அடிப்பனடயிலான
இனடமுகம்), னமக்சரா
(தசன்சரி நிச்சஸ்) மற்றும் சமக்சரா (நகர்ப்புை வசதிகள்) உள்ளிட்ட பல-உணர்ச்சி சூழல்களின் பல்சவறு
அளவுகளில்
அனடயாளம்
காணப்பட்டு
பயன்படுத்தப்பட்டுள்ளன.
வடிவனமப்பு
வழிகாட்டுதல்கனள தசயல்படுத்துவது அைிவுபூர்வமாக முடக்கப்பட்ட ஒரு உள்ளடக்கிய பயனர் குழுவில் கவனம் தசலுத்துகிைது. கட்டனமக்கப்பட்ட வடிவம் உணர்ச்சி பன்முகத்தன்னமயில் சமரசம் தசய்யாமல் வழிதசலுத்தல் மற்றும் அணுகனல எளிதாக்குவதில் கவனம் தசலுத்துகிைது. இந்தியாவின் ஹரியானாவில் உள்ள கரத்பூர் பாஸ் பள்ளத்தாக்கில் உள்ளனமக்கப்பட்ட இடத்தின் காரணமாக
இந்த
தளம்
இயற்னகயான
ஓடுதலுக்கான
தனடனய
எளிதாக்குகிைது.
டிஜிட்டல்
புதுனமகள் மற்றும் தானியங்கி சபாக்குவரத்து மற்றும் ஆர்சகா-டூர் சபான்ை கருப்தபாருள் விதிகள் வதி ீ வனலயனமப்பு துண்டிப்பு குைியீட்டின் (எஸ்.என்.டி) படி 100 மீ ட்டர் முதல் 100 மீ ட்டர் வனர கட்டம்
அனமப்பின்
அடிப்பனடயில்
கட்டுமானமானது மட்டு கூறுகனள
தள
மண்டலத்னத
வடிவனமத்தன.
கட்டனமப்பு
அடிப்பனடயாகக் தகாண்டது மற்றும் சநரடி
அளவிலான
கட்டுமானத் ததாகுதிகனளப் பயன்படுத்தி தலசகா அடிப்பனடயிலான கட்டுமானத்தின் குனைந்த தவற்ைிகரமான பரிமாணத்னதப் பயன்படுத்துகிைது. டிஜிட்டல் தனலயீட்னட னமயமாகக் தகாண்ட முதன்னம உணர்ச்சி வசதி ஹால் ஆஃப் சகாகூன்ஸ் ஆகும், இது பயனர்களுக்கு தங்கள் தசாந்த உணர்ச்சி தினசதிருப்பனல ஆராய்ந்து புரிந்துதகாள்ள சராசபாரிகாமி சபனல்கனள வழங்குகிைது. 10 தவவ்சவறு
வட்டு ீ
பண்புரீதியாக
உருவாகியுள்ளன
வட்டாரத்துடன்
பழக்கப்படுத்தப்பட்டுள்ளன.
ஒலிகனள
அச்சுக்கனலகள்
உருவகப்படுத்துவதன்
தசயல்படுத்தப்படுகிைது.
பயனரின்
மற்றும்
மூலம்
உணர்ச்சித்
ததாழில்நுட்ப சிைந்த
ஒரு
சதனவகளின் விவரங்களின்
ஒலியியல்
முழுனமயான
அடிப்பனடயில் அடிப்பனடயில்
தசயல்திைனுக்காக
நகர்ப்புை
முன்
மதிப்பீடு
ஆக்கிரமிப்பு
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DECLARATION
I declare that this Thesis titled “DIGITALLY ENHANCED MULTI-SENSORY ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIAL HOUSING FOR THE NEURODIVERGENT” is the result of my work and prepared by me under the guidance of Dr. M. Elango and Ar. R. Rajeswari and the work reported herein does not form part of any other thesis of this or any other University. Due acknowledgement has been made wherever anything has been borrowed from other sources.
AYSHWARYA SURESH 2019804003 M. Arch (General) Batch-2019
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to thank God Almighty for blessing me with wisdom and strength. I would like to thank the School of Architecture and Planning, the esteemed Dean and HOD for providing the valuable learning experience. I would like to thank the internal coordinator Dr. M. Elango and Ar. S. Prakash for their excellent guidance and innovative suggestions. I extend my sincere gratitude to my guide Ar. R. Rajeswari for enriching the process with motivational radiance and adding vital inputs at the research bottlenecks. I thank my family and friends for their appreciation and ardent efforts from time to time.
AYSHWARYA SURESH 2019804003 M. Arch (General) Batch-2019
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER NO.
TITLE
ABSTRACT (ENGLISH) ABSTRACT (TAMIL) LIST OF TABLES LIST OF FIGURES LIST OF SYMBOLS, ABBREVIATIONS
1
2
INTRODUCTION 1.1. GENERAL 1.2. DESIGN OBJECTIVES 1.3. AIM 1.4. DESIGN SCOPE 1.5. STRUCTURE OF THE THESIS
PAGE NO.
iii iv x xi xiii
1 2 2 2 3
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN ORIENTATION 4 2.1. OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS 4 2.1.1. Multisensory Environment 2.1.2. Sensory Room 2.1.3. Conditioned Spaces 2.1.4. Autism 2.1.5. Sound Aural Environment 2.1.6. Urban Soundscapes 2.2. 2.3. 2.4. 2.5. 2.6.
DESIGN CHALLENGES EXISTING BACKGROUND HYPOTHESIS POSSIBLE ANTITHESES PRECEDING RESEARCH BRIEF
5 6 6 6 7
viii
3
ARCHITECURAL DESIGN PROTOCOL 3.1. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 3.2. INTERACTION DESIGN
8 9
4
CASE STUDY CONCLUSIONS 4.1. CRITERIA SUMMATION 4.2. VALIDATING CRITERIA 4.3. COMPARITIVE ANALYSIS 4.4. STAKEHOLDERS
12 12 13 14 15
5
IMPLEMENTATION 5.1. ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS 5.2. DESIGN GUIDELINES 5.3. SENSORY DESIGN MATRIX 5.4. SCENARIO-BASED DESIGN ASPECTS 5.5. SENSORY DIVERISTY
16 17 19 20 22
TYPOLOGY BASED DESIGN 6.1. ARCHITECTURAL PROGRAMMING 6.2. HOUSING TYPOLOGIES 6.2.1. AGRO-SILO HOUSING MODEL 6.2.2. SOUND ISOLATION UNITS 6.2.3. BI-LEVEL BASEMENT UNIT 6.2.4. SPECIFICATIONS 6.2.5. LOFTED TINY HOUSE 6.2.6. SOHO HOUSING UNIT 6.2.7. BACKYARD ORIENTED UNIT
23 25 26 29 30 33 34 35 39
SPACE + SITE 7.1. CAMPUS CONCEPT ORIENTATION 7.2. SITE ZONING DERIVATION 7.3. NATURAL ELOPEMENT BARRIER 7.4. EDOCOBLOCK 7.4.1. MODULARITY 7.4.2. VISUAL CONNECTIVITY
40 41 42 43 43 44
6
7
ix
7.5. 7.6. 7.7. 7.8.
8
9
7.4.3. PROGRAMMING DIAGRAM 7.4.4. LIFE SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS 7.4.5. DIGITAL FAÇADE SYSTEM 7.4.6. ELEVATIONS 7.4.7. SECTIONS 7.4.8. SHOPPING STREET 7.4.9. SENSORY OPTIONS SPORTS BLOCK SENSORY GARDEN BIRD FEEDING ZONE AGRO-TOUR
45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 54 55 57
DIGITAL INTERVENTIONS 8.1. LEGO-BASED CONSTRUCTION 8.2. ROBOGAMI ACOUSTIC PANEL 8.2.1. ACOUSTIC CONSIDERATIONS 8.2.2. BASICS OF SOUND AURALIZATION 8.2.3. DESIGN PROCESS 8.2.4. MODELLING THE ORIGAMI PANEL 8.2.5. FOLDING HINGE DETAIL 8.2.6. SPECIFICATIONS 8.2.7. ACOUSTIC SIMULATION STUDY 8.2.8. VR SIMULATION 8.2.9. DUAL FUNCTIONS 8.2.10.MODULAR UNITS
58 59 59 60 61 62 65 66 67 68 70 71
DERIVATIVES 9.1. EMERGING ARCHETYPE 9.2. ACOUSTICS BASED PRE-OCCUPANCY 9.3. CONCLUSION 9.4. LIMITATIONS
72 74 75 75
APPENDICES ETHICAL DISCLAIMER REFERENCES
76 84 85
x
LIST OF TABLES
1. Table 4.1. Case study Conclusions 2. Table 5.1. Design Guidelines for Neurodivergence accommodation 3. Table 6.1. 5X5 Matrix for Architectural Programming
xi LIST OF FIGURES
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44.
Fig.3.1. The 1.5 Diamond method in continuation of the quasi-experimental research Fig.3.2. Basic Composition of an interactive space. Fig.3.3. Interactive Space Framework Fig.3.4. Example of Interactive Space Framework: Hall of Cocoons Fig.4.1. Compiled summation of design criteria Fig.4.2. Universal Design Principles Fig.4.3. Stakeholders and Interrelationships Fig.5.1. Architectural Systems in this project Fig.5.2. Sensory Architectural Needs Matrix for Architectural Intervention Fig.5.3. TRIAD OF IMPAIRMENTS Fig.5.4. TRIADIC GROUPING OF ACTIVITIES Fig.5.5. SPATIAL ORGANIZATION Fig.5.6. SENSORY DIVERSITY AND TRANSITIONS Fig.6.1. Transition Spaces Fig.6.2. Housing Typology Matrix Fig.6.3. Row1: Agri-silo ventilation diagram; Row2: Site Context details; Row3: Model depicting twin-walled systems of the agri-bins/silos Fig.6.4. Section of the Agri-Silo Model Fig.6.5. Exploded View of twin-walled system in the Agri-Silo Model Fig.6.6. Pre-engineered Air-flow duct the Agri-Silo Model Fig.6.7. Sound Isolation Units placed in the corridors Fig.6.8. Entry Level View Fig.6.9. View depicting the Bi-level at the Entry point and Roofing Fig.6.10. Ground Floor Plan (H10) Fig.6.11. Basement Floor Plan (H10) Fig.6.12. Exploded View (H10) Fig.6.13. Controlled Daylighting: Interior View Fig.6.14. Specifications (H10) Fig.6.15. Plans and Sections (H4: Loft Type-01) Fig.6.16. Plans (H5: Loft Type-02) Fig.6.18. Interior View showing the lofted workspace above living room (H6: Loft Type-02) Fig.6.19. Interior Sectional Views showing the bedroom (H5: Loft Type-02) Fig.6.20. Interior Views showing the restroom lighting (H5: Loft Type-02) Fig.6.21. Interior View of the Master Bedroom (H5: Loft Type-02) Fig.6.22. Interior View of the Study room (H5: Loft Type-02) Fig.6.23. Plans and Sections (H2) Fig.7.1. CAMPUS CONCEPT DIAGRAM Fig.7.2. USER PROFILES DATA INTERACTION Fig.7.3. NATURAL ELOPEMENT BARRIER IN SITE Fig.7.4. MODULAR STRUCTURE BASED DESIGN Fig.7.5. VISUAL CONNECTIVITY AND IMPACT Fig.7.6. PROGRAMMING DIAGRAM Fig.7.7. LIFE SAFETY COMPLIANCE Fig.7.8. LED DISPLAY ON FAÇADE SYSTEM Fig.7.9. NORTH-WEST VIEW
xii 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60. 61. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66. 67. 68. 69. 70. 71. 72. 73. 74. 75.
Fig.7.10. WEST-SIDE VIEW Fig.7.11. Elevations of Edu-Co Block Fig.7.12. Sections of Edu-Co Block Fig.7.13. Plan showing the shopping street Fig.7.14. View showing seating spaces with textures and patterns for sensory simulation Fig.7.15. Visually sensorial: apt for hypo-sensitive users Fig.7.16. Visually less distractive: apt for hyper-sensitive users Fig.7.17. Sports Block Layout Fig.7.18. Sports Block Details Fig.7.19. Sports block: Hyper-Left and Hypo-Right Fig.7.20. Sensory Garden Details Fig.7.21. Tractor muffler used in foundation to reduce water sound Fig.7.22. Bird feeding zone and the Dove-Cote Fig.7.23. Dove-Cote constructed using scrap wood and discarded construction scaffoldings Fig.7.24. Agro-tour features | Source: Archtruistic Fig.8.1. User Involvement in Lego based Construction Fig.8.2. Modifying Reverberation Time Fig.8.3. Simple setup for sound auralization Fig.8.4. Design process for the sensory robogami panel Fig.8.5. Physical Modelling of the Panel Prototype Fig.8.6. Parametric Modelling of the Panel Prototype Fig.8.7. Laser cutting numeration for the modules Fig.8.8. Parametric model of the Robogami Panel in Rhino+Grasshopper Fig.8.9. Folding Hinge (180 degrees) Detail using common materials Fig.8.10. Reference Specifications for the Sensory Panel Fig.8.11. Parametric scripting for the urban sound simulation Fig.8.12. Micro Physical Set-up of the CAVE VR System Fig.8.13. VR Haptic Interaction to move the Panels in a sinusoidal wave Fig.8.14. FUNCTION-01: ACOUSTIC PANEL FOR SENSORY SIMULATION Fig.8.15. FUNCTION-02: SENSORY COCOON FOR RESPITE Fig.8.16. Transition of the Modular unit from contraction to expansion (Facilitated by the hinges) 76. Fig.9.1. The precedent models for the Archetype of “Sensory Cocoon” 77. Fig.9.2. The resultant model of Sensory Cocoon from the project 78. Fig.9.3. Comparative analysis of the housing clusters and interior surfaces
xiii
LIST OF SYMBOLS, ABBREVIATIONS
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
ID – Intellectual Disability MSE – Multisensory Environment Sq. m. – Square meters Sq. ft. – Square feet SNDi – Street Network Disconnectedness Index AVRI – Autonomous Vehicle Readiness Index CAVE – Cave Automatic Virtual Environment VR – Virtual Reality AR – Augmented Reality
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
The idea of universal accessibility is questionable when it comes to the disabilities that are not just physical. We are oriented towards considering built spaces for the mind in equilibrium. But very limited evidence is available about the effectiveness of multisensory environments or ‘how to design multisensory environments for discrete sensory needs’ (Essary 2020). Hence, this thesis focuses on the most important aspects of sensory simulations in a design housing community based on social innovation and scenario-based testing narratives.
1.1.
GENERAL
The need for housing remains a challenge for the neurodivergent, considering the aspects of independence, life safety and sensory diversity. For over 20 years MSEs are being experimented and studied but are used in an ad hoc manner using an eclectic range of equipment (Miller 2001). There was no clear-cut design intervention in providing standards or codes for modern day architectural practice. The existing elements of MSE are therefore still being revised and reconsidered for experimentations. But, the preceding data of this research has concluded 28 Design guidelines for designing buildings for people with Intellectually Disability. The structured state of existence is the micro level projects or ‘pockets within an existing building’ has been expanded over to the achievable urban soundscape and living interfaces in every home of the community designed. The idea of social innovation has paved way for an integral living mechanism where neurotypicals and neurodivergent are provided with better quality of life.
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1.2.
DESIGN OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this project can be identified as follows: • Accommodating sensory needs in the social housing context. • Implementing design technology in sensorial features on the Micro-level of Multi-Sensory Environment. • Expanding the sensory simulation from indoors to outdoors and also the urban soundscape and sensorial diversity. • Design a virtual reality interface for architectural customization of
spaces based on sensory needs: Architecture Intelligence Embedded Virtual Reality for the Intellectually Disabled (AIEVRID).
1.3.
AIM • To design a social innovation-based housing community for the Intellectually Disabled without compromising sensorial diversity and digital scope of applications. • Integrate the inclusive spaces with services, locomotive aids
(accessibility), themed multi-sensory niches and VR/AR inputs at the required zones.
1.4.
DESIGN SCOPE
Architectural: 1. Spatial planning of the HOUSING NEIGHBOURHOOD 2. Virtual Reality Architectural Review – feedback mechanism 3. Process based customization of spaces Allied: Digital Interfaces for VR/AR Simulation
The design scope of this project are as follows: 1.4.1. Site zoning and details 1.4.2. Housing Typologies 1.4.3. Architecturally improvised Digital interfaces
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1.4.4. 1.4.5. 1.4.6. 1.4.7.
1.5.
Sensory Niches Gastronomic Workshop Sports Block Hypo-right and Hypo-Left features
STRUCTURE OF THE THESIS • Designing a human interface for the ease of architectural experimentation and research for the neurodivergent population. • To test the hypothetical practicality of revitalizing the existing sensory based design guidelines and life safety provisions. • Develop a master plan for the site prescribed by the government compliant rules and provisions along with setting an example for futuristic solution for the current problems faced by the neurodivergent. • Programming highly diverse options for housing with respect to the site context and also practicality.
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CHAPTER 2
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN ORIENTATION
No instructive standards or codes are available to be applied in the design process although precedent researches have established the sensory parameters and their comparative features. This needs to be applicable even to existing structures without structural changes, which is not significantly possible if not for digital intervention. Hence, there is a chance to improvise the unplanned design criteria of “sensory needs”.
2.1.
OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS 2.1.1. Multisensory Environment (MSE) A Multisensory Environment is a dedicated space or room where sensory stimulation can be controlled (intensified or reduced), presented in isolation or combination, packaged for active or passive interaction, and matched to fit the perceived motivation, interests, leisure, relaxation, therapeutic and/or educational needs of the user. 2.1.2. Sensory Room A sensory room is a space designed to help an individual with sensory issues learn to regulate their brain’s negative reactions to external stimuli by developing coping skills for these experiences. In some cases, it may be a whole room, or it can simply be a space set aside in a corner of a larger room.
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2.1.3. Conditioned Spaces An enclosed space within a building where there is an intentional control of the thermal conditions within certain defined limits using natural, electrical, or mechanical means which can be categorized into either active or passive. 2.1.4. Autism “Autism is a severe disorder of communication, socialization and flexibility in thinking and behaviour, which involves a different way of processing information and of seeing the world.” (Jordan, R. 1999) The essential characteristics of this intellectual disorder are the presence of an abnormal development in the following areas: • Communication: Difficult or inexistent verbal communication. Difficulties in non-verbal communication. • Socialization: Severe difficulties in interpersonal relationship. • Imagination: There is a lack of imagination characterized by uncommon and repetitive game play. 2.1.5. Sound Aural Environment The sound aural environment is the combination of all the acoustic resources, natural and artificial, within a given area as modified by the environment. 2.1.6. Urban Soundscapes A soundscape is the acoustic environment as perceived by humans, in the urban context.
2.2.
DESIGN CHALLENGES In the modern ages, we forget the various disabilities that are a part of the human race. There are a lot of challenges for the intellectually disabled even in today's
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digital age. How is it possible to enhance their wellbeing through appropriate architectural interventions? And to what extent is this better than the conventional building experiences?
2.3.
EXISTING ARCHITECTURAL BACKGROUND Research has been executed in the digital fabrication of multi-sensory environment. Various architectural products are in the market that can be used in buildings to enhance the experience of special users' group. The study of precedent research papers has helped in deriving a structures research methodology. The case studies mentioned appropriately have provided solid proof in terms of post-occupancy evaluation that sensory buildings are improvising the lives of the special users' group.
2.4.
HYPOTHESIS The multisensory environment can be improvised to accommodate wider range of users with the interference of digital fabrication and customization. Sensory needs can be addressed in existing buildings by following a parametric analysis and process-based design.
2.5.
POSSIBLE ANTIHYPOTHESES • The unavailability of regular building standards and codes can be perceived as a positive space for creativity and diversity. • There must be alternatives to digital interventions, such as vernacular and nature-induced techniques (Zen gardens and olfactory elements) which can be embedded into buildings for inducing a sensory dynamism.
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2.6.
BRIEF ABOUT PRECEDING RESEARCH
The research has benefitted in the understanding of the current situation of sensory deprivation and the various contemporary digital interventions that are being used to rectify this situation. The utilization of the process-based design approach can bring paramount benefits to not just architects and designers but even to other professional groups that are involved in enriching the lives of people with Intellectual Disability. The digital enhancement of the Multisensory Environment at various scales is possible through the key methods of user behavioural mapping and can be evaluated using the platforms such as virtual reality and scenario-based testing.
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CHAPTER 3
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PROTOCOL
3.1.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY The approach to this quantitative research is based on comparative data consolidated based on the focus group and normal users of the conventional buildings. This research establishes cause-effect relationships among the variables. It can be experimental if not for the limited control of variables, hence concluded to be of the “Quasi-Experimental approach”. The method constitutes of four levels (Fig.3.3), and functions as an addition-based hybrid deviation from the conventional Two-Diamond method and the update edition: Three-diamond approach.
Fig.3.1. The 1.5 Diamond method in continuation of the quasi-experimental research
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3.2.
INTERACTION DESIGN
The “Neurodivergent Social Housing” thesis project is about providing an inclusive opportunity for people with Intellectual Disability to have equitable comfort and access to architectural interventions. It is a break through project that establishes the overlapping interfaces between various fields such as psychology, human computer interactions and architecture. The domain of macro and microlevels interventions for an interactive space (Fig. 3.2.) is based on the key idea of multisensory needs. This is achieved using digital techniques such as behaviour optimization and scenario-based testing. By implementing Robogami principles, an adaptive digital panel is designed, which enables multiple states of kinetic existence including a (i) Sensory acoustic panel and (ii) Sensory cocoon.
Fig.3.2. Basic Composition of an interactive space.
Within each Multi-sensory environment level, there are categorial sub-divisions which form a sequence of events for a user group. The service touch points of interaction help in providing access to the installations that are existent at a particular disambiguate location. This forms the linear relationship of any sensorial interaction at a physical context (Fig. 3.3.)
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Fig.3.3. Interactive Space Framework
The derived framework was used to trace the actual spatial experience of the user group by analysing the activities and their influence on the series of interactive options. For example, In the “Hall of Cocoons”, i.e., the space of sensory respite for the neighbourhood, the activities range from a workspace to a simulation counter. Users selectively choose the kind of niche they want to be in and focus in navigating towards it, where digital panels and interfaces help in maintaining the engagement plan for sensory simulation. The aimed activity can be working, relaxing, eating or even sleeping, hence achieving respite options within an expansive space. The outcome of being able to map out the activities and behaviour of the users enable a pre-occupancy analysis of the interactive space. This has been summarized in Fig. 3.4.
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Fig.3.4. Example of Interactive Space Framework: Hall of Cocoons
The complexity of the perception of wholistic spaces are broken down so that the neurodivergent can easily grasp onto the differences in navigation and accessibility. Hence interactive spaces serve the purpose of sensory benefits for both type of users: neurodivergent and neurotypical alike. The disintegration of the experience provides opportunity to study the behavioural changes and identify issues with respect to architectural psychology at the pre-occupancy stage.
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CHAPTER 4
CASE STUDY CONCLUSIONS
4.1.
CRITERIA SUMMATION The summation of all the criteria identified from various case studies are provided in Fig. 4.1.
Fig.4.1. Compiled summation of design criteria
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4.2.
VALIDATING CRITERIA (POST ANALYSIS) Each of the criteria was subjected to analysis of context validation for the project and ideally expanded or modified.
Fig.4.2. Universal Design Principles
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4.3.
COMPARITIVE ANALYSIS AND INFERENCES
Table 4.1. Case study Conclusions
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4.4.
UNDERSTANDING STAKEHOLDERS AND USER NEEDS
By studying the case studies, the stakeholders for this hypothetical project were identified along with the interrelationships as shown in Fig. 4.3.
Fig.4.3. Stakeholders and Interrelationships
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CHAPTER 5
IMPLEMENTATION
3.1.
ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS
The project is based on the guidelines derived from the research. The programming goals are combined with the scenario narrative so as to form the architectural systems such as the spatial, enclosure, structural and circulation systems. This can be encompassed with the programming as a part of the architectural systems (DK Ching) as depicted below:
Space Profile
Actor Profile
SPACE
USER BEHAVIOR
STRUCTURE
PROGRAMME
Activity Profile
Scenariobased Architectural Systems
SPACE-TIME
ENCLOSURE
Fig.5.1. Architectural Systems in this project
Thus, the sequence of scenario-based testing can be used to successfully convert a basic programming to accommodate varying users, schedules and narratives. Hence when designing the inclusive housing project, the users identified to be having Intellectual Disability can be given special attention and the subsequent activity profiles can help in reducing overcrowding, sensory overload and efficiently use the comfort zones.
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3.2.
DESIGN GUIDELINES
The complete summation of the inclusive design guidelines that incorporate sensory benefits without compromising the comfort of all user groups has been provided in Table 5.1.
Table 5.1. Design Guidelines for Neurodivergence accommodation
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Table 5.1.(continued) Design Guidelines for Neurodivergence accommodation
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3.3.
SENSORY DESIGN MATRIX
The various sensory issues are categorized based on psychological divisions and are provided with three levels of simulation-based requirement – Hyper, Hypo and Interference. This is cross-surveyed with the architectural attributes that contribute to a sensory simulation such as the Structure, Balance, Quality and Dynamic design orientations so as to identify what kind of architectural intervention is required for which type of users.
Fig.5.2. Sensory Architectural Needs Matrix for Architectural Intervention
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3.4.
SCENARIO-BASED DESIGN ASPECTS
The design concept is derived from the triad of impairments (Fig. 5.3) which helps to identify what kind of needs does the building need to satisfy. But this is not a direct derivative, rather a three-tired deployment of conventional concept derivation. The scheme of scenario-based design can be applied to understand the following:
• The first tier is the “Actor Model” which is the understanding of the impairments.
Fig.5.3. TRIAD OF IMPAIRMENTS
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• The second tier is the “Activity Model” which explains the activities (Fig. 5.4) that the users practice regularly as per the narrative study.
Fig.5.4. TRIADIC GROUPING OF ACTIVITIES
• The third tier is the “Space Model” which the transition zones and view frames of the complete organization.
Fig.5.5. SPATIAL ORGANIZATION
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3.5.
SENSORY DIVERSITY
Due to the profound establishment of the three tiers of scenario-based testing in the project, the narratives and elements of the tiers can be modified so as to provide various sensory diversity options across the site, by modifying the space and activity models with the same user personas. Since the change of the sensory perception is validated by a proper narration and motive, the transition zones emerge prominently at the intersection of spaces. For example, the Activity Profile of relaxation can be fixed but the user groups and the spaces can be modified as depicted in Fig. 5.6.
SENSORY NARRATIVE-02 SPACE PROFILE: BALL PIT
SENSORY NARRATIVE-04
ACTOR PROFILE: PLAYFUL
SPACE PROFILE: SUNKEN NICHE ACTOR PROFILE: INTROVERT
SENSORY NARRATIVE-01 SPACE PROFILE: MOUNDS ACTOR PROFILE: ADVENTURERS
SENSORY NARRATIVE-03 SPACE PROFILE: GRID BASED ACTOR PROFILE: ORGANISED
Fig.5.6. SENSORY DIVERSITY AND TRANSITIONS
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CHAPTER 6
TYPOLOGY-BASED DESIGN
9.1.
ARCHITECTURAL PROGRAMMING
The preface for the categorization and initiation of a schematic layout was shaped by creating a 5x5 matrix considering the goals and problems of this project (Table 6.1.). The sensory design program is categorized into typology based, process based and kind of digital intervention. The micro-level MSE is mostly controlled by this spectrum of sensory design solutions that can either be designed to reduced the sensory load or induce appropriate simulations for the user group.
The important criteria that we introduced at this stage specifically required for satisfying this user group are as follows: 1. Transition Spaces (Fig. 6.1.) 2. Sound safe Zones
Fig.6.1. Transition Spaces
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Table 6.1. 5X5 Matrix for Architectural Programming
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9.2.
HOUSING TYPOLOGIES
The housing typologies for this project has been developed based on the characteristically identifiable sensory simulation that can be physically provided in the interior of a housing layout, without compromising the practicality and user needs. Each of the typology is subjective to the user needs, hence customized and process-based. The iterative elements of walls and roofing systems contribute to 80% of the sensory perception visually to the user.
Fig.6.2. Housing Typology Matrix
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9.2.1. AGRO-SILO HOUSING MODEL
The H1 housing model has been innovated to re-use the agricultural grains storage silo that is plentifully abandoned in the nearby yard of the site belonging to Adani Agri Logistics Ltd. The estimated cost of renovating this silo into a home is a fraction of the cost of actually constructing a conventional house with this kind of acoustics and ventilation.
Fig.6.3. Row1: Agri-silo ventilation diagram; Row2: Site Context details; Row3: Model depicting twin-walled systems of the agri-bins/silos
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Fig.6.4. Section of the Agri-Silo Model
Fig.6.5. Exploded View of twin-walled system in the Agri-Silo Model
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Fig.6.6. Pre-engineered Air-flow duct the Agri-Silo Model
The housing model is constructed by adding the floors and furnishing details, leaving the ventilation ducts and double walls intact as of the engineered model so as to allow maximum ventilation without additional fenestrations and mechanical ventilation needs.
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6.2.2. SOUND ISOLATION UNITS IN GROUPED HOUSING
Fig.6.7. Sound Isolation Units placed in the corridors
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6.2.3. BI-LEVEL BASEMENT HOUSING UNIT
Fig.6.8. Entry Level View
Fig.6.9. View depicting the Bi-level at the Entry point and Roofing
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Fig.6.10. Ground Floor Plan (H10)
Fig.6.11. Basement Floor Plan (H10)
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Fig.6.12. Exploded View (H10)
Fig.6.13. Controlled Daylighting: Interior View
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6.2.4. SPECIFICATIONS: HEYA In Japanese, Heya means “small room.” Designer Roger Webb created Heya to form smaller spaces within an environment. For individuals, Heya creates a place for people to escape, think, and breathe. For groups, Heya creates a place for people to closely collaborate and connect. We even took Heya to a more portable level with Heya mobile, creating the option to adjust the space according to employee needs throughout the day. Heya’s comfort and visual softness allow these small rooms to blend seamlessly into the office, while still providing the closeness and privacy people need to really focus.
Fig.6.14. Specifications (H10)
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6.2.5. LOFTED TINY HOUSE UNIT
The tiny housing model for a single user has a lofted bed to provide the safe niche for a sensorial experience. The compacted space aids the easy living of a neurodivergent user without the complications of navigation and space chaos.
Fig.6.15. Plans and Sections (H4: Loft Type-01)
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6.2.6. SOHO HOUSING UNIT
This unit consists of a lofting type that is centred within sloping roofs so as to provide a workspace with skylights (Doubly-glazed). The walls are made by using rammed earth/ haybales so as to make the space completely sound-proof. The interior panels are made of bamboo veneering and plywood, hence reducing the sound reverberations.
Fig.6.16. Plans (H5: Loft Type-02)
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Fig.6.17. Exterior cut out view showing the skylights (H5: Loft Type-02)
Fig.6.18. Interior View showing the lofted workspace above living room (H6: Loft Type-02)
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Fig.6.19. Interior Sectional Views showing the bedroom (H5: Loft Type-02)
Fig.6.20. Interior Views showing the restroom lighting (H5: Loft Type-02)
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Fig.6.21. Interior View of the Master Bedroom (H5: Loft Type-02)
Fig.6.22. Interior View of the Study room (H5: Loft Type-02)
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6.2.7. BACKYARD ORIENTED UNIT
This unit has a linear space that can be modified into a zen garden or greenhouse or painter’s/sculptor’s workspace. Hence giving the complete freedom to the user to modify the attached space as per their personal interests. This makes the module more personalized and adds to the user interaction with the space.
Fig.6.23. Plans and Sections (H2)
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CHAPTER 7
SPACE + SITE
7.1.
CAMPUS ORIENTATION
Fig.7.1. CAMPUS CONCEPT DIAGRAM
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7.2.
SITE ZONING DERIVATION
Four super blocks are derived based on the SNDi with dimensions 110m x 110m. This also adds up to the benefit of providing a complete grid system suitable for vehicle automation. The basic user data with the sensory needs is derived from an automated randomizing tool. This is analysed systematically to categorize the environment scale factor of interference and also the building typologies that need to designed in the respective site blocks.
Fig.7.2. USER PROFILES DATA INTERACTION
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7.3.
NATURAL ELOPEMENT BARRIER
This feature of the site is the most prominently contributing factor for the safety of the users. Due to the site being nested in a valley, and also because there is only point of exit/entry, the users cannot physically move away from the location. In the urban context, where people with Intellectual Disability are to be interactive or moving around, they are constantly monitored and the chances of them eloping is only barred by walls/safety fences which are an eye sore. But in this case, nature does the job of providing a natural barrier.
Fig.7.3. NATURAL ELOPEMENT BARRIER IN SITE
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7.4.
EDUCO BLOCK
The first block is dedicated to provide the complete amenities that are required for the functioning of the neighbourhood within one wholistic complex. It is a combination of educational and economical programmes that are in met across using transitional spaces and interaction zones. It also has provisions for gaming and entertainment.
7.4.1. MODULARITY
Fig.7.4. MODULAR STRUCTURE BASED DESIGN
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7.4.2. VISUAL CONNECTIVITY
Fig.7.5. VISUAL CONNECTIVITY AND IMPACT
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7.4.3. PROGRAMMING DIAGRAM
Fig.7.6. PROGRAMMING DIAGRAM
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7.4.4. LIFE SAFETY CONSIDERATION
As per IBC 2018, the life safety standards prescribe very minimal fire-rated partitions such as 30 minutes or 1 hour. But for this building that is primarily function to people with Intellectual Disability, it is important to understand that crowd control is crucial in case of emergency evacuations. Hence 2 hours of fire rating is the minimum.
Fig.7.7. LIFE SAFETY COMPLIANCE
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7.4.5. DIGITAL FAÇADE SYSTEM
Fig.7.8. LED DISPLAY ON FAÇADE SYSTEM
Fig.7.9. NORTH-WEST VIEW
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Fig.7.10. WEST-SIDE VIEW
7.4.6. ELEVATIONS
Fig.7.11. Elevations of Edu-Co Block
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7.4.7. SECTIONS
Fig.7.12. Sections of Edu-Co Block
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7.4.8. SHOPPING STREET
The economic front for the neighbourhood is characterized by the shopping street which proves to be sensorial simulation for patterns, textures and also in combination with isolation spots.
Fig.7.13. Plan showing the shopping street
Fig.7.14. View showing seating spaces with textures and patterns for sensory simulation
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7.4.9. SENSORY HYPO-LEFT AND HYPER-RIGHT
Users with hyper-sensitivity need more simulation and variation within the spaces of interaction whereas the users with hypo-sensitivity need very mild and calm sensorial niches or spaces so as to cause no deflections. This gives the choice to the users to accommodate themselves within the same building during a sensory overload.
Fig.7.15. Visually sensorial: apt for hypo-sensitive users
Fig.7.16. Visually less distractive: apt for hyper-sensitive users
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7.5. SPORTS BLOCK
Fig.7.17. Sports Block Layout
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Fig.7.18. Sports Block Details
Fig.7.19. Sports block: Hyper-Left and Hypo-Right
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7.6. SENSORY GARDEN
Fig.7.20. Sensory Garden Details
Fig.7.21. Tractor muffler used in foundation to reduce water sound
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7.7. BIRD FEEDING ZONE
Fig.7.22. Bird feeding zone and the Dove-Cote
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Fig.7.23. Dove-Cote constructed using scrap wood and discarded construction scaffoldings
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7.8. AGRO-TOUR
The side pockets along the valleys are designated to be used as agricultural fields. The site was historically a cultivated land, hence to mark its important function of water drainage and conservation, the agricultural fields will be enriched with seasonal organic cropping patterns. The whole area will be benefitted using greenhouses and also agrotour niches for visitors to enjoy the set-up.
Fig.7.24. Agro-tour features | Source: Archtruistic
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CHAPTER 8
DIGITAL INTERVENTIONS
8.1.
LEGO-BASED CONSTRUCTION
A user can get either physically involved or digitally engaged in creating a Lego-based building which has all sorts of elements made up of modular units (see Appendix-A).
Fig.8.1. User Involvement in Lego based Construction
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8.2.
ROBOGAMI ACOUSTIC PANEL
Taking design cues from origami, robotician Jamie Paik and her team created "robogamis": folding robots made out super-thin materials that can reshape and transform themselves (See Appendix-2). This idea is almost never considered at a larger scale yet. But it proves to be of psychological benefits for people with Autism. Hence this prototype has been aimed to achieve the pilot status of contribution to the existing acoustic panels and sensory cocoons.
8.2.1. ACOUSTIC CONSIDERATIONS
To make a space acoustically perform better, the key idea is to modify the reverberation time using appropriate materials and geometry. The Volume (See Fig 8.2.) can be modified by adjusting the shape of the panel by simple kinetic motions. The sound absorption is facilitated by the use of insulation materials such as bamboo plywood.
Fig.8.2. Modifying Reverberation Time
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8.2.2. BASICS OF SOUND AURALIZATION
The sound aural environment is controlled by using the three main attributes as shown in Fig 8.3.
Fig.8.3. Simple setup for sound auralization
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8.2.3. DESIGN PROCESS
Fig.8.4. Design process for the sensory robogami panel
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8.2.4. MODELLING THE ORIGAMI PANEL
Fig.8.5. Physical Modelling of the Panel Prototype
Fig.8.6. Parametric Modelling of the Panel Prototype
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Fig.8.7. Laser cutting (or CNC) numeration for the modules
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Fig.8.8. Parametric model of the Robogami Panel in Rhino+Grasshopper
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8.2.5. FOLDING HINGE DETAIL
Fig.8.9. Folding Hinge (180 degrees) Detail using common materials
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8.2.6. SPECIFICATIONS
3D Printed Ball & Socket Joinery
Fig.8.10. Reference Specifications for the Sensory Panel
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8.2.7. ACOUSTIC SIMULATION STUDY
The panel is provided the context location of a fixed volume and various urban sound sources are introduced. The audio output varies as per the sizing of the panels and volume within the form (Complete data in Appendix-3). This can be used as a predecessor for creating sound aural environments and also carefully analyse the urban surroundings of the site. The parametric plug-in used for the simulation is Esquissons and Pachyderm Acoustic in a Grasshopper script (See Fig. 8.11).
Fig.8.11. Parametric scripting for the urban sound simulation
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8.2.8. VIRTUAL REALITY SIMULATION
Fig.8.12. Micro Physical Set-up of the CAVE VR System
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Fig.8.13. VR Haptic Interaction to move the Panels in a sinusoidal wave
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8.2.9. DUAL FUNCTION OF THE SENSORY PANELS
Fig.8.14. FUNCTION-01: ACOUSTIC PANEL FOR SENSORY SIMULATION
Fig.8.15. FUNCTION-02: SENSORY COCOON FOR RESPITE
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8.2.10. MODULAR UNITS OF THE PANEL
Fig.8.16. Transition of the Modular unit from contraction to expansion (Facilitated by the hinges)
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CHAPTER 9
CONCLUSIONS
9.1.
EMERGING ARCHETYPE FOR THE NEURODIVERGENT
The neurodivergent users have been the focus groups of many researches in the recent years, hence the ideas of sensory simulation and sound aural environments have been discussed and analysed. But this is just the beginning stage and already there are three prototypes of a sensory cocoon in the architectural form. This emergent shape has been made using wood, steel, 3D printing, living hinges, cardboard so far and why not, Robogami panels. The ease of embedding digital panels on this sensory cocoon has made it possible to move, change shapes and colours and also emit simulating pink noise or nature sounds as per the user requirements.
Fig.9.1. The precedent models for the Archetype of “Sensory Cocoon”
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SENSORY COCOON 3.0
Fig.9.2. The resultant model of Sensory Cocoon from the project
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9.2.
ACOUSTICS BASED PRE-OCCUPANCY SIMULATION
The entire project can be wholistically analysed for acoustics by using the following tiers of work flow:
9.2.1. ANALYSIS OF URBAN SOUND IN HOUSING CLUSTERS 9.2.2. INTERIOR ACOUSTICAL PERFORMANCE 9.2.3. DIGITAL PROVISIONS OF SPECIAL ACOUSTIC NEEDS
Fig.9.3. Comparative analysis of the housing clusters and interior surfaces
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9.3.
CONCLUSION
The project has covered aspects of all three tiers of Multi-sensory environments ranging from Micro to Macro level of interventions. The important consideration for an architect is to implement the guidelines during the design stage and also analyse the user personas so as to cover the aspects of the varied sensory needs of the Intellectually Disabled Spectrum. The mediation from design to end product must be analysed in feedback loops including extensive pre-occupancy simulation studies covering acoustics and lighting at least. The details are where more time needs to be dedicated so as to create innovative and feasible solutions for the issues faced by the neurodivergent population. If not solve all the issues, at least provide the scope for adjustments and changes over the course of occupancy period. The sensory panel/cocoon is one of its kind and provides the future scope of utilizing more digital aids in making the sensory simulations accessible across the globe.
9.4.
LIMITATIONS
The ability to achieve this level of digital interventions including the automated transport system is questionable in the Indian Context, but only when the design and schemes are planned now, they will be considered as vital options in the near future.
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APPENDICES
APPENDIX-1
LEGO BASED CONSTRUCTION
A1.1. DEMONSTRATION
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A1.2. LEGO MINIATURE ARCHITECTURAL MODELS
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APPENDIX-2 ROBOGAMI PANELS (Source: Robogami: A Fully Integrated Low-Profile Robotic Origami)
A2.1. HAPTIC SENSORS
A2.2. ORIGAMI ROBOT THAT FOLDS
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A2.3. HAPTIC CONTROL ON THE ROBOGAMI PANELS
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A2.4. LAYERS OF A ROBOGAMI PANEL
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APPENDIX-3 ACOUSTIC SIMULATION (Source: ESQUISSONS)
A3.1. EXTERIOR URBAN SOUND SIMULATION
A3.2. INTERIOR SOUND SIMULATION
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A3.3. ACOUSTIC PANEL PRECEDENT DESIGN (Source: Resonant Chamber, Peter Smith)
left: (left to right) porous expanded polypropylene (PEPP) panel; solid insert, electroacoustic framework centre: view of a single ‘unit’ right: base structural components
View of a small sample of units hanging
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The team fed audio data into computer models of ‘resonant chamber’ to optimize the transformation of the panels.
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ETHICAL DISCLAIMER
All the survey samples and feedback are provided/verified licensed professionals such as academicians/psychologists who specialized/knowledgeable in Multi-Sensory Environment.
by are
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REFERENCES
1. Chen, Ting-Han & Lu, Kai-Tzu. (2012). Creating Spatial-Interactive Service Experiences: A framework for designing interactive service spaces.
2. Ahlquist Sean (2015) Tactile interfaces and environments for developing motor skills and social interaction in children with autism. 3. P. A. Hancock (2019), On the future of transportation in an era of automated and autonomous vehicles, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Apr 2019, 116 (16) 7684 7691; DOI: 10.1073 4. Jamie k. Paik (2019), Robogami: a Fully Integrated Low-Profile Robotic Origami, Reconfigurable Robotics Laboratory Department of Manufacturing and Robotics EPFL Lausanne, Switzerland 5. Firouzeh, A., Ozmaeian, M., Alasty, A., and zad, A. I., (2012). “An ipmc-made deformablering-like robot”. Smart Materials and Structures, 21(6), p. 065011 6. H. Kuttruff, (2009) Room Acoustics, 5th ed., Taylor and Francis, New York. 7. Yang, Xuyou. (2017). Adaptive Acoustic Origami.