Programming Potential - Dissertation | M.Arch (prof)

P R O G R A M M I N G POTENTIAL : Reintroducing the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Psychiatric [non-institution] back into contemporary South African society

Homairah Munsami Design Dissertation Masters of Architecture (Professional) 2013

COVER SHEET TITLE : Programming Potential STUDENT NAME: homairah munsami STUDENT NUMBER: mnshom001 SUPERVISOR: Professor Jo Noero (First Semester), Assoc. Prof Nic Coetzer, Mr Robert de Jager, Francis Carter (Second Semester) This dissertation is presented as part fulfillment of the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional) in the School of Architecture, Planning and Geomatics, University of Cape Town “I hereby: a. grant the University free license to reproduce the above dissertation in whole or in part, for the purpose of research. b.Declare that: i. The above dissertation is my own unaided work, both in conception and execution, and that apart from the normal guidance of my supervisors, I have received no assistance apart from that stated below. ii. Except as stated below, neither the substance or any part of the dissertation has been submitted for a degree in the University or any other university. iii. I am now presenting the dissertation for examination for the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional)”

PLAGIARISM DECLARATION 1. I know that plagiarism is wrong. Plagiarism is to use another’s work and pretend that is one’s own. 2. I have used the Harvard convention for citation and referencing. Each contribution to and quotation in this paper from the works(s) of other people has been attributed, and has been cited and referenced. 3. This paper is my own work. 4. I have not allowed, and will not allow, anyone to copy my work.

Signature: Date: 16 October 2013

Acknowledgements My pillars of strength - Mom, Dad and Aadil. The guidance and support from all the supervisors. Dr Wendy Vogal and her inspiring staff at the Red Cross Childrens Division of Child & Adolscent Psychiatry. Thank you.

P R O G R A M M I N G POTENTIAL : Reintroducing the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Psychiatric [non-institution] back into contemporary South African society submitted in partial fulfilment of the Masters of Architecture (Professional) degree University of Cape Town : School of Architecture ,Planning & Geomatics student number : mnshom001 3

Contents Page | Preface Abstract Introduction

6 8 9

Part 1 | 1.1 Social Issue as an informant : Mental health & architecture

[INTERLUDE] Design strategies | locating site & programme Design strategies | initial conceptual informant

16 18

1.2 Theoretical framework | The experience of architecture : a discussion on space & place

Part 2 | 2.1 Design strategies | understanding the site & understanding the programme as an extension of “psychology of place” { Approached in parallel for richer resolution }

[INTERLUDE] theoretical framework | how to appropriate a connection to landscape through the architectural intervention

2.2 Design Strategies | developing design process & sketch plan proposal (visual documentation)

Part 3 | 3.1 Design Development | strategies for materialization & making through: Technological framework | “Sensory Stimulation through Expression of Material”: architecture as therapy Theoretical framework | children - environment relationship

48 56

Conclusion | reflection

Bibliography Table of figures

77 79

Appendix In order for this document to read as a cohesive piece of writing, various amounts of research that influenced decisions could not be included. As a result they will appear here. A: Background Research related to the History of Mental Health & precedent B: Interviews with various role players, pictures of the existing Red Cross Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and information regarding various disorders and subsequent treatments. C: Site Analysis: Klipfontein Road Street Edge & Developing an approach to site with programme

Preface | The human’s ability to experience different places and to store a remembrance of such an experience otherwise known as ‘memory’ is something remarkable. The idea of being able to recall memories of experiences throughout our life is something that we all have in common. Memories we made with family, with friends, and with strangers, both as an adult and as a child. Although we may all be individuals, and as a result we all have different memories and different perceptions, which makes life much richer, richer in experience, in culture and in knowledge, they all have one thing in common.

“The gaze holds hidden experiences, knowledge and expectations. Perception is not neutral; we continually compare what we see with situations that we have previously met and assimilated.” (Meiss, 1990)

Place. The place in memories, in dreams and in everyday life. I base this paper on a personal investigation in understanding the way in which architecture shapes our perceptions, experiences and feelings. If you gave me a piece of paper, and asked me to draw my family’s popular holiday spot, which we stopped going to after I turned 12, I would be able to recount it all. From the walk on the sand, to the staircase built from the existing rocks, to the waves crashing on them, to the seemingly deep pool that frightened me, to the view of the ocean, to the wall that I never looked over, to the colour of the bricks at the ablution block, to the sunshine. I hold this memory very dear to me, and I haven’t been back to the spot since then. Part of me never hopes to.

“Architecture is environment, the stage on which our life unfolds.” Bruno Zevi (Moller, 1968) 6

FIGURE 001: collage of childhood vacation, homairah munsami, 2013.

FIGURE 002: 5 minute charcoal sketch of my favourite holiday destination, highlighting the main characteristics of place which stand out in my memory, homairah munsami, 2013.

FIGURE 003: collage of images depicting psychiatric institutions.

A search of both ‘children’s psychiatric hospitals’ & ‘psychiatric hospitals’ in Google, results in the above selection of images. Over the years, through cultural, social and geographical influences, our perception of this ‘place’ has become the location for horror stories. Dark spaces, confinement, and loneliness are just a few characteristics that have become associated with the mention of the institution.

Abstract | Michael Foucault in Madness and Civilisation: A history of sanity in the age of reason said, “Modern man no longer communicated with the madman. There is no common language, or rather it no longer exists.” (Foucault, 1964) The above statement whilst raw in its description of people with psychological disorders as ‘madmen’, clearly describes the problem which exists today, both in South Africa and abroad. Psychiatric Hospitals or “lunatic asylums” as they were previously known evoke a sense of mystery amongst those who have not directly engaged with such an institution. Their role in society, as places of isolation and confinement, is questionable in today’s context. Our perception of them has been shaped by their previous engagement in society, one that can be attributed to both its spatial and perceptual configuration. The connection between architecture and psychological disorders but could possibly be

addressed through the way in which we interact with both the natural and built environment and as a result, experience. This thesis is rooted in a [phenomenological] investigation into the creation of [a] space that may facilitate the healing and treatment of children with psychological disorders, whilst providing an environment that allows for individuality and creativity. It aims to manipulate landscape within a chaotic urban setting, to create an oasis, a gradual process of healing the mind, for children. It will re-introduce the typology of ‘psychiatric hospital’, which can be argued is still valid in contemporary society, through carefully thought out spatial ideas and will challenge previous perceptions both in form and function. It will speak of many “oppositions”: sensitive yet attracting, calming and engaging, healing and creative

FIGURE 004: Imagined space : breaking down the perceptions an and ‘walls’ of the psychiatric institution, homairah munsami, 2013.

Introduction | This dissertation questions the current architecture that houses the complex programme of treating children with psychological disorders. It seeks to reintroduce an architecture that’s speaks not of ‘institution 1’ but rather of ‘place2’ into psychiatric institution. It uses design as a tool for creating place of ‘potential’ opposed to function only. This dissertation seeks out the existing Red Cross Children’s Hospital Division of child and adolescent psychiatry, a leader in the treatment of children in the Cape Town and greater western cape area, as a potential base upon on which a new ‘type 3’ of architecture could be developed. To get to an architectural intervention this thesis began with many different points of discourse. Part of this dissertation is a pursuit to understand the way in which people experience architecture and as a result, space. Linking to this experience as a sensory one and which is investigated, is the question of the way in which healthcare architecture is approached in South Africa, whilst functional (which is questionable) but often not engaging4 . The second part brings in additional theory relating to reconstruction of landscape as a base and continuation of the experience of the built environment and our connection to natural ‘place’. A final part, which is reinforced through strategies of making and technology, is the relationship between children and environment. All three parts have various theoretical underpinnings, which coupled with design strategies will conclude in an architectural intervention. This dissertation began with creative transformations produced at the beginning of the year which explored the results from personal perceptions of how it may feel to be confined. In a creative task undertaken by, a black box, representing a room with only one window

was created. Purely from the personal interaction in certain spaces, the conclusion that if one were to be kept in a similar room over time they would feel constricted, was made. Following this, a second smaller box with images representing nature and perceived ‘happy’ and ‘tranquil’ spaces were created. Upon placing the smaller box within the bigger box the question that may or may not be able to be answered, is put forth. How does the built space affect our curent emotional and mental state? And how then can an architect possibly design for people who have emotional and mental differences? This question then put in motion an initial theoretical broad investigation into the way people experience architecture.

FIGURE 005, 006 & 007 : Models created showing firstly a perceived space, an imagined space, and then a combination, homairah munsami, 2013.

1. The architecture associated with hospitals and schools , are classified as institutions.They exhibit strong architectural characteristics that we are familiar with and that easily allow us to identify such types. 2. Places take into consideration a holistic approach. They exude certain character. 3. Not necessarily a new typology, but rather a different approach to the typology. 4. To start to challenge people’s perceptions based on aesthetics and characteristics.

It is important for me to state that whilst the theory sits as its own entity and may not feed directly into the subsequent design thesis, it started to suggest a personal approach to design, and interest in architecture. Through the various theoretical investigations that looked at the experience of space on a broader level the conclusions that can be made are the following. Firstly, it was important to establish the difference between space and place. Following from that, the importance of considering a collective groups of peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;psychology of spaceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as a design approach became apparent; as it considers holistically the way each individual approached a space, engages with and perceives and finally allows it to become memorized as a place, whereby future experiences can be measured. One approach to phenomenology was introduced as a factor in trying to understand our connection to both our built and natural environment, the latter which is

expanded further into the thesis. Lastly a rich sensory experience of space should be provided and is enhanced by ones own individual perception of space. Whilst pursuing the above theoretical discourses and social aspects as informants, the location and programmatic development of an architectural intervention was explored. The preliminary notion used as a design approach paradoxically has its roots in the historical architecture of psychiatric institutions of the 19th century. Using this strong idea as a base, conceptualization started to form. The ideas from the historical approach started to see an exploration relating to the creation of a reconstructed landscape as an extended theoretical framework. The historical approach based its ideas on a strong connection to nature as a therapeutic aid. An exploration into this notion began to manifest as an exciting challenge to

10 FIGURE 008 : Timeline to locate oneself in thesis topic, and introduce you to process of thought, homairah munsami, 2013.

my project, as my siting placed the architectural intervention in a chaotic urban setting, with minimal natural environment. The question then became how it would be possible for me to use such an approach in the specific site. This process eventually culminated into a sketch plan proposal of the architectural intervention. Extending the idea of an “embodied sense of architecture” as discussed in the theoretical paper, the development of a technological argument exploring the deeper meaning between materials and programme is established. This investigation argued that as architecture was a multi-sensory experience, it should be a result of collaboration between expected experience, materiality choice and programme. Therapeutic environments as the programmatic subject were explored using the case study approach.

Although the relationship between children and environment was a background interest throughout the whole process, it was realized and reinforced through the making and technical development of the architectural intervention. The relationship between the users and each programmatic space was investigated resulting in ‘places’ being created. The design development phase then took the sketch plan through to a final design that seeks to reintroduce a children’s psychiatric center as valid programme in contemporary society, that is designed to not only facilitate the treatment of children, and to [hopefully] inspire, but to challenge previous perceptions through an architectural intervention.

Part 1 | 1.1 Social Issue as an informant : Mental health & architecture | Before I begin this discussion it is important to first clearly define what is to be understood by the term ‘mental health’ and ‘mental illness’, and secondly the appropriate way in which to address the issue. Mental health according to the World Health Organization is defined as “a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.” (World Health Organization, 2013). Similarly by definition ‘mental illness’, also known as a psychological disorder is when the “thoughts, feelings and behavior starts to make social integration problematic, or cause personal suffering” (Mental Illness Definition, 2012). For the purpose of this dissertation I will be using the term ‘psychological disorders’ to address both adults and children. The topic of mental health in society may seem to bear no relevance to architecture, but in fact our mental state of mind is a influence from the environment in which we surround ourselves, and as a result the architecture which houses the treatment of our mental state should be of utmost importance. Whilst we have all at some stage in our lives felt heightened feelings of emotions, for some this is a daily occurrence and needs attention as it begins to affect their daily lives.

The treatment of both adults and children with psychological disorders has been approached differently by society through the ages. A look at the topic, to both spatially and perceptually understand the different architectural approach that has influenced current practice, will be done using a historical [visual] timeline. This historical timeline will be looked at internationally as well as locally to be to provide a more holistic understanding. For a more in-depth analysis please refer to Appendix A.

FIGURE 009 : Visual timeline showing the spatial history of the psychiatric institution internationally, homairah musami, 2013. Refer to table of figures for further reference.

One of the main problems with the treatment of psychological disorders in a hospital setting begins with the characteristics of the hospital environment. The last resort in psychiatric treatment is medicine, so whilst medicine may be used as a parallel form of treatment, it is not necessarily the primary one. The hospital environment however does not allow for other forms of treatment to take place, and thus needs to be reconsidered. The historical timeline above only mentions adults as the primary patients seeking psychological help and this is due to the fact during the 18th and for most parts of the 19th century â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;childhoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; was not recognized as a special phase of life with its own developmental stages (Kuczaj , 1991). Once it was recognized in the 19th century, special wards within the larger psychiatric institutions were set out for children and child psychiatry became a legitimate medical specialty. (Kutchins & Kirk, 1992) Although this historical look focused on adults, its architectural influence and spatial implications on child and adolescent psychiatry is evident. The environment treating children and adolescents should be reflective of that, and currently within South Africa it is not. This sets up a programmatic challenge for the architectural intervention.

FIGURE 010 : Visual timeline showing the spatial history of the psychiatric institution locally, homairah musami, 2013. Refer to table of figures for further reference.

The internal structuring of space within [Valkenberg] the building, and the way the building was situated in the landscape, are graphic representations of 4 influences, in tension with each other: determination to reform the colonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s psychiatric practices, a desire to reproduce British institutions in colonial settings, a stigmatizing fear of insanity and lunatics, and a desire to maintain strict segregation between White and Black staff and patients. (Louw & Swartz, 2001)

Mental Health Statistics South Africa | Psychiatric Institutions continue to play a central role as a key, not necessarily outdated, player in service delivery in South Africa and equally importantly, as a powerful and negative symbol of historical attitudes towards the mentally ill. Treatment for children takes place at 3 main places across Cape Town. Tygerberg Hospital, Lentegeur Psychiatric Hospital and Red Cross Childrens Division of Child and Adolscent Psychiatry Identifying and treating children and adolscents at an early age may reduce the burden of disease and to seek the validity of the psychiatric hospital in contemporary society is vital. However, a move from large institutional buildings that add to stigma and current perceptions of such institutions needs to be made. With the introduction of public healthcare meant that more people were treated in hospitals, however psycological cases are not all clinical , meaning that the hospital environment which is clinical in nature is not the best place to treat patients. The aim of this project is to reintroduce the hospital into society as a safe place, designed to facilitate healing. Thus eliminating any previous negative connotations.

FIGURE 011 : Mental health statisticswith reference to children, within the Western Cape, South Africa , homairah musami, 2013. Refer to table of figures for further reference.

[INTERLUDE] Design strategies | locating site & programme Through the historical timeline, the choice of siting and programme for this thesis became apparent. The existing Red Cross Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospital Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry situated in Rondebosch Cape Town was seen as an exciting programmatic base on which my challenging ideas and notions could be tested.

Potential: Residential setting, which would reinforced the notion of reducing the â&#x20AC;&#x153;institutionalâ&#x20AC;? nature. Rondebosch Commons sits opposite and offers a more tranquil setting, away from main roads.

Limits: The site is limited in size, an increase in the programme would result in the building becoming more than 2 storeys which in a residential area could be problematic. A majority of the patients use public transport, which stops at a further distance to this site. The patients often have to travel to the main Red Cross Childrens Hospital for administration purposes, and often do not have transport.

FIGURE 012 (top left) : Arc GIS [Accessed March 15,2013] , Site Photos : homairah munsami, 2013. FIGURE 013 (bottom) :Hand-drawn site map showing two sites in realtion to each other , homairah musami, 2013.

The Division itself was looking to expand and as a result a discussion of moving site was opened. The existing site (SITE A) and the possible new site (SITE B: situated next to the Red Cross Children’s Hospital) were evaluated next to each other and the decision was made to use the new site as opposed to the existing.

Potential : Close to a main public transportaion route Klipfontein Road , as many of the patients travel with public transport. Speaks of an architecture that could potentially engage more people, as its on a main thoroughfare. Large space, would allow for a mostly single storey development, thats is crucial for this programme. Close to the hospital for both staff and patients who need to go there, and would also allow for the sharing of the the hospitals existing parking space.

Limits: Too public, issue of privacy and safety becomes an issue. Sits in a chaotic urban setting, noise also becomes an issue. Could take on the ‘stigma’ of being next to a hospital, however a challenge to avoid that through the architecture.

FIGURE 014 (top left) : ArcGIS [Accessed March 15,2013] , Site Photos : homairah munsami, 2013. FIGURE 015 (bottom) :Hand-drawn site map showing two sites in realtion to each other , homairah musami, 2013.

[INTERLUDE] Design strategies | initial conceptual informant One of the key characteristics of the design of psychiatric institutions during the 19th Centrury was the importance of the MORAL TREATMENT approach, which was founded by William Turk and realised through the construction of the York Retreat. The characteristics of the design approached used in

“Moral Treatment”: Design of Psychiatric Institutions in the 19th Century, which are adapted from The Well- Ordered Body: The quest for Sanity through Nineteenth-Century Asylum Architecture by Barry Edginton. (Edignton, n.d.), are as follows:

1. Caring for the body, first meant to care for the mind. 2. Architecture was to be constructed ensuring ordering, in detail, of placement, movement and perception of those who are to be treated. 3. The design was to be grounded in the POTENTIAL rather than the FUNCTION 4. The architecture was to represent a PASSAGE TO SANITY, which is drawn from the ordering of nature. 5. It consists of both NATURAL ORDER (landscape) and SOCIAL ORDER (community) 6. The design itself was to be treatment - a process 7. The focus of treatment was not internal to the building, as it is in the modern hospital, but outward to the healing calm of NATURE 8. Moral architecture: a sober orderly environment that did not excite and placed the patient in touch with SOCIAL and NATURAL supports. 9. Connection to site is important. 10. Connection between BODY and MIND, between BODY and DESIGN & between MIND & NATURE Paradoxically I will be using the above set of characteristics as to challenge the notion of ‘institution’ as a design approach for my proposed architectural intervention. From here on out ‘moral treatment’ will referred to as an ‘holistic approach’.

“Treatment of the morale, in the sense of the emotions and the self-esteem: The importance of benevolence and a comfortable living environment encouraging reflection. Treatment was based on personalized attention and benevolence, restoring the self-esteem and self-control of residents. An early example of occupational therapy was introduced, including walks and farm labouring in pleasant and quiet surroundings. There was a social environment where residents were seen as part of a large family-like unit, built on kindness, moderation, order and trust.

There was a religious dimension, including prayer. Inmates were accepted as potentially rational beings who could recover proper social conduct through selfrestraint and moral strength. They were permitted to wear their own clothing, and encouraged to engage in handicrafts, to write, and to read books. They were allowed to wander freely around The Retreat’s courtyards and gardens, which were stocked with various small domestic animals…” (The Retreat :York, 2011)

FIGURE 016 : Enloge 1, homairah musami, 2013.

1.2 theoretical underpinnings | The Experience of Architecture: a discussion on space & place One of my feet stepped in a flagstone lower than the ones next to it… and then, all at once, I recognized that Venice which my descriptive efforts and pretended snapshots of memory had failed to recall; the sensation I had once felt on two uneven slats in the Baptistry of St Mark had given back to me and was linked with all the other sensations of that and other days which had lingered expectant in their place among the series of forgotten years from which a sudden change had imperiously called them forth. (Proust, 1957, pages 210 -211) (Canter, 1977)

This section is rooted in the inquiry into the way man interacts with the space around him. This interaction with space, both the structured (built environment) and non-structured (natural environment) and its influence on our physiological and psychological well-being forms the initial investigation in this piece. ‘Psychology of place’ becomes the first theoretical approach discussed which as a result leads to phenomenology, perception and the ‘embodied sense of architecture’. This piece aims to create a base for further investigation, and through its construction begins to plan ideas of other interests for this thesis. For the purpose of this report main notions and conclusions formed from a more indepth dialogue will be discussed. Our everyday life-world consists of concrete ‘phenomena.’ It consists of people, of animals, of flowers, trees and forests, of stone, earth, wood and water, of towns, streets and houses doors, windows, and furniture. And it consists of sun, moon, and stars, of drifting clouds, of night and day and changing seasons. But it also comprises more intangible phenomena such as feelings. - Christian Noberg Schulz (Nesbitt, 1996, p. 414) 20

FIG 017 : Diagram showing discourses related to the experience of space, homairah munsami, 2013.

Defining space and place Because this piece talks about the interaction of man with his surroundings it is important to establish the relative meanings of space and place. According to Christian Norberg-Schulz in Genius Loci: Towards a Phenomenology of Architecture (Norberg-Schulz, 1980) space can be one of many things – “space as three- dimensional geometry, and space as a perceptual field. ” (Norberg-Schulz, 1980) coupled with the definition by the Oxford Dictionary space is also “a continuous area or expanse which is free, available, or unoccupied”. So in essence, space is that which exists around us, but can also be something which is imagined. Space, however, can become a place or places with the addition of human experience. Place is therefore a result of “relationships between actions, conceptions and physical attributes” (Canter, 1977, p. 158), and in architecture, and specifically phenomenology we talk about the experience of places as opposed to the experience of space. “Places and people are inseparable. Places exist only with reference to people, and the meaning of place can be revealed only in terms of human responses to the particular environment used as a framework for daily living.” (Seamon & Mugerauer, 1985, p. 113)

FIG 018 : diagram illustrating what ‘place’ constitutes, Altman, I. & Low, S. M. eds., 1992. Place Attachment :Human Behaviour and Environment. New York: Plenum Press

To experience space, we must think it into existence (Woods, 2007)

To further understand the difference between space and place, as well as how ‘place’ is created we must begin to uncover the way in which we experience it. And whilst spaces are designed to cater for groups of people, the experience of it is a subjective and an individual one. A look at the way in which space is experienced will benefit and contribute to ideas on how to construct spaces into ‘places’. Spatial intelligence and the Psychology of Place What if architecture were the product of our spatial intelligence? Neither ‘carved or moulded’, not cut out of solid matter, not assembled from twigs and branches, not draped from poles, but instead forged from our ideas about space, our histories in space, our communal mental space…. (Schaik, 2008, p. 9)

‘Mental space’ according to Leon Van Schaik, is the memories of spaces such as gardens, rooms, streets and experiences which we build up throughout life, especially intensely (eidetically) in childhood, however “we only become aware of our ‘mental space’ through moments of eidetic recall” (Schaik, 2008, p. 41) Schaik argues that in order for architects and other designers to design for the world, they need to first engage with their own individual ‘mental space’. A way for this to be done is through what can described as “intensive excavation of their eidetic memories” (Schaik, 2008). These memories should be mapped against existing designs of buildings that are off particular interest to the architect themselves, simultaneously we should acknowledge that an understanding of all layers of ‘mental space’, and not just the architects needs to be done.

In order to understand that more than one layer of ’ ‘mental space’ needs to be incorporated in designing for people, we can take a look at Modernism, which used the single layer of mental space. One of those few who have argued intuitively for the inseparability of architecture and context is Dalibor Vesely, an architectural theorist who spent his teaching life demonstrating that in modern era the unity of time, place and culture that is essential to architectural reality has been fractured.” And as a result “a consequence in architecture today our spatial knowledge is either buried deep within our unconscious, or it surfaced in a highly simplified form. (Schaik, 2008, p. 84)

The reason for this is because it disregarded the need to design for the human, but rather imposed ideas about the creation of place onto others. It can however be acknowledged that regional modernism began to detour from this train of thought, and started to incorporate more than one layer of ‘mental space’.

the richness of the intended experience of the place. In order to design for a particular community and take into consideration subjectivity in the experience of space it is important to produce “representations of people conceptual systems”, i.e. how each individual experiences a space. The psychology of a place is also reliant on different perspectives, as a result of different “roles”. Using the definition of ‘role’ as put forth by David Canter in the Psychology of Place, whereby it is defined as “a person’s role which is related to his dealings with his physical surroundings” (1977) we can begin to understand that people who take on different roles within a certain environment are also clearly experiencing the place differently, depending on their role. His example of a children’s hospital, which both a domestic cleaner and doctor are frequenting, clearly shows this difference. The domestic cleaner is most likely to consider the way she can clean the ward, and so is aware of sharp corners, whilst the doctor is more concerned in the way he can get around the wards easily, and how he can efficiently provide care to those who need it, whilst a visitor is only concerned with how they can see the patient. This interaction depending on ‘roles’ is a base for the development of the way individuals experience place, and as a result should influence the way in which architects’ think about design. “Powerful spaces act on us through three levels of expression: the architonix, the poetic and the narrative.” (Schaik, 2008, p. 85)

FIG 019: Peter Lyssiotis, Though we are unaware of this, we are the prisoners of our mental space, photomontage for Spatial Intelligence, 1998- completed as part of an Australia Council New Media Arts Fellowship at RMIT, Melbourne Australia.

To create place, we must take into consideration experience that has geographical, social and architectural characteristics. This becomes the psychology of place. It is important to acknowledge the experience of a place is very subjective, but this subjectivity can only add to

The above established that space is experienced on an individual level, and this comes from but a cultural and social background, however, still leaving the question of how this experience is realised. Phenomenology There exists many different approaches to phenomenology ,but for the purpose of this piece we shall look at the approach to understanding phenomenology which comes from the field of philosophy and can be described as a “way of thinking

FIG 020: a conceptual task, highlighting proposed role players and the way in which they would use the site, homairah munsami, 2013

rigorously and of describing accurately the complex relation between person and world” (Seamon & Mugerauer, 1985, p. 1), more simply the way in which people interact with and experience space. Its relationship to architecture deals with the environment, and involves “reconsidering the nature of person – environment relationship, particularly in regard to building and design” (Seamon & Mugerauer, 1985, p. 2) . According to Heidegger it can be described as “the process of letting things manifest itself” (Seamon & Mugerauer, 1985, p. 15). As previously mentioned space is that what exists around us, whilst phenomenology is the relationship between person and world. Architecture therefore becomes a means of bridging or connecting space into place, resulting in a phenomenological approach. It begins to answer the question of how the experience of space is realized. Perception & the ‘embodied sense of architecture’ Whilst we have established that we experience architecture through a process known as phenomenology it is important to establish how that is generated. The way we first and foremost experience anything in life is through our perception. Perception is easily defined as the way in which humans’ are able to identify, organise and then reinterpret that which is

around them, using our entire sensory tools available to us. By using sight, smell, touch, sound and taste, we are able to understand, as well as reinterpret how we perceive the environment around us. Perception, all our senses, the unconscious and the conscious minds are therefore all interrelated as well as dependent on each other. Historically perception and its relation to architecture favoured the sense of sight for a long time, considering it to be “the most noblest sense”. (Pallasmaa, 1996). Reinforcing this notion in the book ‘Eyes of the Skin’, Juhani Pallasmaa talks about technology further revering sight and hearing as senses, whilst touch, smell and taste became “archaic sensory remnants.” (Pallasmaa, 1996). However, man was not always dominated by vision. Sound, touch, smell and taste were imperative in cultural understanding and behaviour, but the dominance of sight made its way through western culture, even more so in the Age of Reason, industrialization and finally modernism. In order to perceive space and an as a result make it a place we need to use sight in relation to all other senses, working together both consciously and unconsciously.

FIG 000 (left) : illustrating the hierachy of senses, images sourced from google images, complied by homairah munsami, 2013 FIG 000 (above) : illustrating the non-hierachy of senses, images sourced from google images, compiled by homairah munsami, 2013

FIG 021 : digrams illustrating what constitutes our perception & understanding, homairah munsami, 2013

Finally in order to understand the way in which architects make use of the idea of perception and the sensory experience in architecture, we should look to an architect who uses this approach in their own work. Whilst Tadao Ando is not necessarily described as architectural phenomenologist, I have chosen him as an example because he strives for creating buildings which are functional, but are also phenomenlogical.

Ando, in an article entitled ‘A wedge in circumstance’(Ando, 1995, p. 444) talks about the way in which his architecture may look like abstract space trimmed of all humanity and function, as his spaces are designed to evoke “emotional expression of various people”, but are in fact not. One of the main characteristics of Ando’s work as he states is the “ambiguous articulation of the function of space”. His reasoning behind this approach allows for these

unrestricted spaces to further enhance any feelings a person has from previous experiences, whilst experiencing the space resulting in an experience of the space on another level. Tadao Ando’s approach attempts to fully utilize the space between functions on an emotional level, branding this as “emotionally fundamental space” (Ando, 1995). “No matter how dramatic the space is itself, I believe that it must not be cut off from the daily life of occupants.” (Ando, 1995). How do we create a space, which incorporates mundane everyday life occurrences, but manages to incorporate some part of drama into it? Ando’s “emotionally fundamental space” speaks of a space which allows one to feel deeply what one wishes to feel individually, has the deepest meaning ,only, when “it has meaning on the level of daily life” (Ando, 1995) as well. However in line with

that thought of thinking Ando speaks of creating spaces that are individual in nature. “The primary significance of enclosure is the creation of a place for oneself” (Ando, 1995). He subscribes to an architecture that separates one from society, to experience their individuality and then carefully reintroduces spaces where interaction with society can then take place, so that the “individual is [not] subordinate to society” (Ando, 1995). The space however should be a place where an “individual can develop, even when isolated from the world.” (Ando, 1995). His approach to creating spaces that have been lived, worked in whilst at the same time providing a place where physical and psychological individually can take place is particularly interesting.

The experience of architecture lies in the different ways we transform space into place [s]. This experience is understood to be subjective and influenced by social, cultural and geographical factors, and as an approach to architecture should be an influencing factor in design. The way in which we experience, is revealed through one [of many] approach of phenomenology, which seeks to reinforce or provide meaning to the connection we have to the built and natural environment. This connection is then manifested through the way we perceive which is a result of utilization of all [or most of] the senses. Whilst the above theorey provides a general bases for the start of understanding one approach to architecture, it starts to influence my design approach to my project which stemmed from a strong programmatic viewpoint. The programmatic functions of any architecture results in specific and direct influences on the users of the space, in fact they become interdependent. The desired experience by each user group to be had and how they relate to each other is a driving force in this thesis.

2.1 Design strategies | understanding the site & understanding the programme as an extension of “psychology of place” (Studied in parallel for richer resolution)

Site | Whilst the new site proposed for development

is logistically more appropriate, it sits in a challenging, chaotic urban setting. Historically the Red Cross Children’s War Memorial Hospital was built on land that belonged to the Rondebosch Common, and the proposed site for the new architectural intervention was the foundation for many homes. As time progressed those houses were demolished and the site became part of the Red Cross Childrens’ Hospital, unused for many years.

26 FIG 022 : aeriel photographs showing the development of the site between 1945 & today.

The Rondebosch Common is a beacon point in the suburb of rondebosch. It is a large communal plot of land that was once used as a camping ground for soldiers during the British invasion of the Cape. In 1855, it was granted as a place on which people could graze their cows, but at the same time remain open for public use. It was declared a national monument in 1961, and this 100 acre piece of open ground is home to 200 indigenous plant species. - extracted from the History of Rondebsoch. (Bishops Preparatory, 2013)

27 FIG 023 : Site Analysis : Chaotic Urban Setting. Aeriel Maps showing the site in larger context. Site Photos : homairah munsami, 2013.

FIG 024 : Site Analysis showing drawings of site currently and basic analysis , homairah munsami, 2013.

Programme | The Red Cross Children’s Division

of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry purpose “is to maintain and further develop an academic child and mental health centre of excellence providing clinical services, teaching and research responsive to the changing needs of our society.” (extracted from : A Proposal for a new building to house a center for excellence for the divisions of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Red Cross war memorial children’s Hospital.)

The programme will see the provision of the following spaces shown below (with corresponding sq. meters), separated according to their progression from the level of public to private. Through various meetings (see APPENDIX B) with the different staff members, head psychiatrist, psychologists and clinicians at the existing building I was able to form a much better understanding of what was required. The beginning of a programmatic layout on site was starting to conceptualize.

Common spaces: This is the first space which both the child and parent experience upon arrival. It should be welcoming and child appropriate. The reception will need a space for administration functions and general staff equipment. A security kiosk to monitor the whole center should be located within this vicinity. The first room the child will experience is the clinc room, before they go through to the consultation, and this both the room (as a destination) and the route or corridor to it (as a journey) should be made exciting. Day & In-Patient unit: Therapeutic Learning Centre (for children up to the age of 13): Meets the needs of both day and in-patients in one facility, but should function separately as to not interfere with each other. The needs of the day and in patients are met within the classroom and consultation rooms, and the in-patients unit accommodates the rooms and resources for caring for the children beyond the school day. The in-pateint unit acoomodates children between the age of 6 and 13.

FIG 025 : Accomodation schedule with required sqm , homairah munsami, 2013.

Shared Spaces: The following spaces are often shared by the outpatient unit and the day and in patients unit (TLC). The rooms for different therapeutic treatments should be large and bright and airy, and should be able to cater for a larger group of children. The rooms are: Sensory integration room, art therapy rooms, group therapy rooms (family interaction rooms), and larger group rooms. The smaller group rooms for more individual treatment should be reflective of that and thus possess a more intimate feel. Training & Research : Teaching, training and research should be an integral part of a Child and Adolescent Mental Health centre at Red Cross. Thus, the collating if education and academic facilities with the inpatient and outpatient units are a future goal.

Consultation rooms / Outpatient Unit: These occur in both the outpatient and day & inpatient unit. Whilst itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a room that needs to be inspiring and safe for children it also at the same time needs to adequately provide space and resource for the psychologists as they spend most of their time in the space. The rooms need to be private and all should be wheelchair and push chair accessible.

FIG 026 : Accomodation schedule with required sqm , homairah munsami, 2013.

The system of treatment: (Information sourced from the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Red Cross war memorial children’s Hospital.) Children are sent to the Red Cross Children’s Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry on a referral bases. They are seen by other professionals such as a doctor, teacher, social worker or occupational therapist first. Problems suitable for referral are: - Moderate to severe and treatment resistant depression and anxiety disorders. - Autism Spectrum Disorder - Psychotic disorders - Exposure to trauma - Complex bereavement - Severe, complex, treatment resistant elimination disorders - Disorders of infancy and early childhood - Eating disorders - Complex tic and movement disorders - Psychiatric disorders due to general medical condition as well as somatoform disorder - Complex disruptive behavior disorders - Moderate to severe and treatment resistant ADHD.

play therapy, marital counseling etc. This may be done by more than one staff member. The treatment sessions which are usually one hour long may take place weekly or monthly, short term or long term. Medication is sometimes used, but only as an assistant in the treatment process, and as a last resort. Possibly children who need more attention will be enrolled in the Therapeutic learning centre for daily or in-patient treatment. Extending ideas from ‘psychology of place’ as discussed in the theoretical framework, an understanding into the way different people with specific roles will utilize a space is vital and would provide a bases on which the layout could be created.

Assessment: Before any treatment can take place an assessment has to be made. This involves the inclusion of the whole family at the first assessment interview. (Due to the child’s problem possibly being an result of family problems as well as having an effect on the family.) This interview last for two hours after which any other interviews (without the family) lasts for an hour. After findings and results have been examined a treatment plan Is drawn up and put into approach. Treatment: The first approach to treatment and often the only approach is in the form of psychotherapy which is family counseling, family therapy, parent counseling,

FIG 027 : Using the idea of ‘psyhology of place as discussed in the theoretical paper, combined with an accurate accomodation schedule allows for the setting up of a workable layout of programme.

Site | The nature of the proposed programme is

sensitive and suggests an introverted approach, but as a result of questioning the perceptions of such places, I will attempt to challenge this notion through an appropriate architectural solution. The site sits on Klipfontein Road, which as mentioned above is a secondary gateway both to and from Cape Town [CBD]. The characteristics of the street are however non reflective of this, and suggests nothing of

a future proposal of a more engaging urban street edge that is a generator of various public transport system. Through an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;edge analysisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (see APPENDIX C for in-depth analysis) one was able to conclude the following as an approach to appropriating the proposed development onto the site. In this way, the architectural intervention would begin to challenge notions of perception of past institutions through its placement.

FIG 028 : The following exploration resulted in the follwing approach : 1.placing building along street edge to announce its presence. 2.stepping the building down in scale as it becomes more private. 3.Pushing the edges of the building in according to entrance points, to act as a marker and guide. 4.Creating a more public edge by allowing public participation with the building through steps or seating as well as visual access. 5.Reducing the presence of a large scale building by splitting the building at various points to allow for further visual acess into the site.

Combining the understanding of programme as well as how to appropriate a building onto the site allowed me to set up a base sketch plan.

FIG 029 : Initial conceptual images produced in May/June where the programmatic relationships started to be developed, both in plan and section , homairah munsami, 2013.

[INTERLUDE] theoretical framework | how to appropriate a connection to landscape through architecture “I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in tune once more” From the Gospel of Nature by John Burroughs (Burroughs, 1989)

At this stage in the project, with the preliminary layout and placement of the architectural intervention on the site, the initial conceptual informant, which looked at the design principles of ‘moral treatment’ architecture, was applied as the driving force in any further design decisions. One of the main characteristics of this approach was the importance placed on the healing of the mind through the connection with nature, and the natural landscape. To begin this discussion it is important to define what landscape means in this context. For the purpose of this dissertation, landscape will be considered as that which is natural. The natural as opposed to the built environment (building). With the consideration of the

landscape as being that which is not the built environment, it can be further broken down into parts – i.e. ‘the wilderness’, the garden, and the hard landscape, in relation to this thesis. Ideally, a programme of this kind would be suitable in a serene setting, where the connection to the natural environment (the ‘wilderness’) is at the maximum. The challenge of the chosen site (which has been explored above) then becomes a question of what, the correct way to appropriate the programme onto the site to ensure, and reconstruct this connection to nature, is. This connection to the natural overlaps with the threshold between the indoor and outdoor relationship.

FIG 030 : Contrasting images showing the ideal location for the programme against the existing site, homairah munsami, 2013.

In Terra Flux, by James Corner he references Victor Gruen, an ‘urbanist’ who refers to ‘landscape’ as being the “environment in which nature is predominant”, i.e. the strongest element. He considers the landscape to not be the “natural environment’ per se, but rather where occupation has shaped the land in an intimate and reciprocal way” (Corner, 2006). Although not directly influencing an approach to the way I will treat the site, on which the intervention will be placed, his consideration is an interesting starting point.

This next section of the dissertation will document, through the design process, how the landscape and the connection to it was established in this project, culminating in a final sketch plan proposal, on which further technical and design (constructional) strategies can be modeled.

2.2. Design Strategies | developing design process & sketch plan proposal (A Visual documentation) While a lot of processs between the initial sketch plan and final sketch plan (site strategy), has taken place, I will highlight the main ideas that were considered. 1.Utilising the majority of the site.

The first approach saw the programme dispersed across the entire site separate various functions, according to their levels of public and private interaction. The notion of digging into the ground as well as pushing up from the ground became a discourse in relation to creating a constructed landscape, as well as creating a more secure and safe environment. This was also motivated for as an approach as a way in which the view to the hospital could be disregarded. The problem that arose with this approach resulted firstly in the creation of extremely long and tedious corridors. Secondly the various extreme level changes throughout the whole building would result in high costs in excavation and retaining.

FIG 031 : first design strategy, homairah munsami, 2013.

2.Removing the institutional nature

The ‘corridor’ is characteristic of an institution and in an attempt to abolish this, various ways in which to remove or reduce the ‘corridor’ were considered. The clustering and condensing of the building together would result in smaller or quicker thoroughfares and less corridor space. These thoroughfares also become points of interaction or ‘thresholds’. The idea to create rooms rather than corridors was considered. A level change to create a more exciting topography was restricted to one portion of the site. Working with the existing topography, a gradual change in level of +-4 meters between both ends of the site was favoured.

FIG 032 : plan development showing ways in which the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;institutionalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; nature attempts to be eradicated , homairah munsami, 2013.

FIG 033 : plan development, homairah munsami, 2013.

3.Separation becomes point of interaction with landscape : developed through the evolution of spatial prgramming and models

FIG 034 : context model with conceptual massing of building, homairah munsami, 2013.

The third approach combines the condensed nature with points of separation to enhance the connection to nature. The separation is a point of physical interaction with the ‘landscape’ (hard, garden, wilderness). The realisations that the connection to the landscape only needed to happen on a small scale, (i.e. not as extreme as digging into earth) manifested. The excavation to create a ‘secret space’ was restricted to one part only. The rest of the building followed the level changes of the topography. The building is laid out in such a way as to interact with the street edge, simultaneously acting as ‘fence’ and protection in itself.

FIG 035 : superceded plan showing basic arrangement of final layout and a selected portion that was developed through section, homairah munsami, 2013.

4.Final Site Strategy & Sketch Plan : Developing three languages through development of section With the layout almost final, various â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;charactersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of the different building clusters started to emerge, and a building language started to develop. This language constituted three parts, each representitive of the

expected spatial qualities and functional uses of the spaces as well as the expected connection to nature. These languages will be articulated into the architecture trough materiality and making. The three parts are as

FIG 036 : portion of plan showing isolated to start developing material & spatial qualities through section, homairah munsami, 2013.

WITHIN landscape living / safety /healing /

FROM landscape growing /learning

ON landscape acknowledging /presence /sensitive

FIG 037 : superceded section , homairah munsami 2013 and images showing material and landscape examples.

FIG 038 :existing site topography, homairah munsami ,2013.

FIG 039 : new site topography influenced by programme and desired landscape. homairah munsami, 2013.

Part 3 | 3.1 Design Development | strategies for materialization & making and through:

Technological framework | “Sensory Stimulation through Expression of Material”: architecture as therapy

Whilst the theory research resulted in the conclusion that our experience of architecture is a sensory one, predominatly using our five main senses, the technological investigation at the beginning of the year tried to uncover, through materiality, how that was possible. This next section will introduce a summary of the notions discussed in the paper as a base upon which the technicality of the architectural intervention could be developed. Similarly through the making of each place in the architectural intervention, the relationship between children & environment is established. Healthcare & Architecture Healthcare, by definition is the “maintenance and improvement of physical and mental health, especially through the provision of medical services”. (Press, 2013) Through historical influences, as well as social and cultural contextual influences, the designing of architecture for the provision of healthcare has become a challenge. Whilst the primary importance should be the planning of spaces that provide adequate services, one can argue that just as much thought should be given to trying to provide an authentic multi-sensory architectural experience in this building type, as we do in others. Typology, which is defined as “a classification according to type” (Press, 2013), begins to suggest certain characteristics that should be apparent in buildings. The question then, is how we can further evoke these characteristics through the architecture. How can the architecture of a school teach, how can the architecture of a house provide comfort, how can the architecture of hospitals, in essence, heal? 48

A deeper connection between materials and programme

needs to be established, and as a result the question of whether architecture as therapy can be created. Architecture should not just be the shell for which a service is provided, but should be able to engage and assist in the provision of this service too. As buildings lose their plasticity and their connection with the language and wisdom of the body, they become isolated in the cool and distant realm of vision. With the loss of tactility and measures and details crafted for the human body- and particularly for the handarchitectural structures become repulsively flat, sharpedged, immaterial and unreal. (Pallasmaa, 1996, p. 20)

Red Cross Childrens War Memorial Hospital

Rondebosch Medical Centre & Hospital FIG 040 & 041 : are examples of healthcare architecture that speaks of an ‘institutional’ nature and is predominantly introverted. Photos : homairah munsami, 2013

Bridging the gap between expression of material and experience of material through the senses When we use our senses as a means to experience we are acknowledging the characteristics of what we are experiencing. Therefore in order to bridge the gap between the intended architectural experience and our senses, the choice of materials becomes important. Materials in essence become the gasket or connection. Materials have their own propensities (Meiss, 1990, p. 180) which means that it is part of the nature to behave in certain ways and as Juhani Pallasma in ‘Hapticity and Time’ states, “Materials and surfaces [that] have language of their own.” (Pallasmaa, 2000). The form of materials thus becomes questionable. Form starts to suggest characteristics such as “fragile or resistant, soft or hard, cold or temperate.” (Meiss, 1990, p. 180) And results in materials being analysed using words such as positive and negative; light and dark; large and small; horizontal and vertical or natural and artificial. When we sense, we in fact perceive that which is around us. Each of our senses allows us to experience space and objects in various ways. Sight allows is, through natural light, artificial light, and shadow to perceive forms. Sound allows us to describe spaces using characteristics such as pitch quality and noise (loud or quite). An echo or lack thereof is suggestive of a material’s ability to absorb sound, or the height of space. Through touch and tactility we can experience roughness and smoothness; hard and soft; flat, curved or sloped as well as warmth and cold. These qualities are all experienced through weight, textural qualities and form. Acknowledging that materials have their own natural characteristic can make our jobs as architects a little easier. It’s better to choose materials based on the following potentials, under which all materials should be judged –“structural potentials, application potential and cladding potential.” (Meiss, 1990, p. 182) But even more than that they have to the power to convey spatial experiences to users. “Materials, rather than being

just functional to the creation of goods, buildings, and environments, act upon the quality of our perceptions and experiences each with its own [articular character and voice.” (Frank & R, 2007, p. 77) Architecture is [also] a service involving practical and intuitive activities, yet any production of architecture as service only, without the seductive input that transforms a practical; exchange into a personal engagement, is purely functional and routine. Frank & R, 2007, p. 101)

To further explain how the expression of material and intended programme can be related, I will be using the case study approach to demonstrate how this is applied in architectural practice. Critical Analysis: Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre’s The Maggie Centres were designed to establish an architecture that was able to “provide an environment in which people could have access to free information, psychological and emotional support,” (Gregory, 2006) whilst going through the trauma of being diagnosed and treated with cancer. The overall scheme behind the Maggie centres is quite simple, “a place near a hospital where patients and family members can walk in without an appointment and be immediately welcomed into a caring community of cancer support victims.” (Linn, 2010). Charles Jencks, whose wife Maggie was the inspiration for the centres, himself “describes the centres using terms such as house, gallery, spiritual retreat and refuge.” (Murphy, 2011). However, its simplicity still allows for the scheme to be interpreted and executed in many different ways, by a range of architects. The use of the terms house, gallery, spiritual retreat and refuge, suggest qualities such as light, safety and warmth. This case study will demonstrate how this was achieved through material usage.

I hope the architecture won’t override the purpose of the building, but compliment it and take it you a higher place of comfort and beauty. (arcspace, 2003)

On first glance the Dundee Maggie Centre immediately references the architect by which it was designed, Frank Gehry. Having being inspired by lighthouses, Frank Gehry decided to include a tower as one of the two main elements in this design. The other element was a folding roof, which inspired by a “shawl worn by a woman in a Vermeer portrait which he had seen with Maggie” covered the main body of the building. The tower, a stark white object, and the only double storey feature in the building, is visible from all over. Similarly, the steel roof, which reflects sunlight, draws attention to itself, but at the same time disappearing into its context. Whilst the exterior of the building is grand in its gesture, the interior is more sensitive. The exposed timber roof inside the building immediately bears resemblance only in structure to the outside, but offers a completely different feel within the building. It provides warmth and intimacy. The wooden floors allow light to reflect on it, warming the spaces up, whilst the white walls inside also make the area seem bright and airy. The exterior of the building painted a bright white is made from bricks. The interior has wooden finishes, which give it the domestic feeling of a home. The pathway at the entrance to the centre has timber seating, a taste of what’s to come inside. The light enters the building from the south (Northern Hemisphere),

FIG 042 , 043 & 044 : The Frank Gehry Maggie Centre sitting in its context.

reflecting on the laminated plywood floor, creating a warm inviting environment. Once again the whole building, besides the tower, is single story and open plan, apart from two small consulting rooms. The first floor in the tower is a small sitting room which overlooks the library. The building itself is isolated from the hospital, and thus already creates a much quieter, calmer setting opposed to a traditional hospital. The large windows in the tower, on both the ground and first floor allows for both expansive views out and a lot of light in. Unfortunately not much has been written about the way in which the roof is able to keep out sound from rain, but one would imagine that a steel roof would further enhance the sound of rain inside the building, during a storm. Also sticking to the brief, and placing the kitchen at the heart of the building, allows the smell from it to filter throughout the building. The exposed timber roof will probably give off its own aroma throughout the building. There is a fireplace in the first floor sitting room, and over the years the timber should absorb some of the smell from the fires that were burnt, once again adding another dimension to the aroma of the building, making it feel more like a home. The building although making a contrasting gestures itself, still takes into consideration the beauty of the landscape and water which surround it and blends into it, complimenting it. The Maggie Centres were chosen as an appropriate case study because they are the beginning of a new

type of healthcare architecture that is challenging the traditional hospital architecture. The first way they do this is through their scale of the buildings which are domestic in nature, thus providing a more welcoming presence. Secondly, the centres locate themselves away from the existing hospital, however still within walking distance. The buildings tend to draw attention to themselves in form rather than materiality, at the same time still challenging traditional â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;heathcare architectureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; through its choice of material. The inside of the building is generally contrasted with the exterior by a noticeable change in materiality. most of the schemes have also chosen to remove the reception. Everyone enters and leaves the building on equal level, patients, staff and friends alike. In most of the schemes, the building revolves around the kitchen, the idea that information and comfort can be received over a cup of tea .The open plan of this strategy allows familiarity through smell which penetrates throughout the building. A main difference between traditional hospitals and the Maggie Centres is the allowance for natural ventilation a contrast as regulated temperature with inoperable windows is normally favoured. Materials in all the Maggie centres, are traditional (to the home), and simple. They are not over powering, but rather adapt to the context within they are built. Materials, as a result are not dominating but contributing to the context and function. In ending the choice of familiar materials contribute to the domestic nature. The buildings challenge traditional hospital through form and layout and materiality of the interior. It gives control back to the patient through its architecture.

The conclusion to this technological investigation into the way expected qualities desired for the creation of places are created through materials, will be through the application of above notions in the development of the architectural intervention proposed in this dissertation.

FIG 045 : sections and 3D views showing materilaity in relation to the desired characteristic of the spaces, homairah munsami, 2013

FIG 046 : a representation of the technical construction through the understanding of function and spatial characteristics, homairah munsami 2013

Theoretical framework | children - environment relationship Moving on from exploring the materiality of each place within the intervention, we can begin to detail and consider the ‘making and special detailing’ of each place, using the ‘children – environment relationship’ as a discourse. Mark Dudek in Kindergarten Architecture: Space for the imagination, states that “there has been an inadequate match between the design process and the imaginative spatial needs of the young child.” (Dudek, 1996) Whilst the material he touches on in the book is relative to the kindergarten setting (children up to the age of 7), parts can be applied to children and adolescent space in general. I have chosen 5 key topics that are of relevance which will be discussed and then visually understood through their application in my architectural intervention.

1.Playing within a secure world What would set this centre apart from a schools education system is the granting of freedom of being and expression, whilst taking place within a protected location. “For some psychologists the essence of childhood is playfulness and exploration, but these must take place within a secure setting.” (Dudek, 1996, p. 6). Within this secure world, the indoor-outdoor threshold is of importance. “The belief was that children would feel secure within the safety of their own semi-private world spaces inside the building, whereas the garden representing the ‘wilderness’ would enable them to free themselves when feeling more adventures” (Dudek, 1996, p. 7)

56 FIG 047 : The building is laid such that whilst it addresses the street edges, it maximises the use of the site by acting as ‘fence’ which encloses the free and safe spaces within, homairah munsami, 2013.

2.An architecture for the imagination The architect’s challenge is “not to just design functionally appropriate spaces to support the children’s activities, but also to engage their imaginative powers in radical way – to put themselves in the state of mind of their clients (children) and come to terms with their potential for fantasy and play.” (Dudek, 1996, p. 8) . This argues for a structured space that supports both social learning as well as a sensory engagement. Creativity, imagination and fantasy are all linked to childhood development, and thus should be reflective in architecture specifically for children. Children, adolescents and adults should in essence, own the places which they are in. 3.Secret Spaces : the house within the house, niches, corners and dens An observation of young children will show that they are attracted to small-scale spaces, “the Wendy house, the garden shed, the tree-house – indeed any space that creates a sense of enclosure and a child’s scale, and heightens the feelings of autonomy within a public world.” (Dudek, 1996, p. 97). Whilst social interaction is a way to teach and treat children, especially those with psychological disorders, moments where they can “find privacy and solitude” are of profound therapeutic value too, as in young children this is when they begin to develop their inner psyche. 4.The external environment : gardens, fields, meadows “It is widely believed that, by observing how plants and animals grow and change over time, young children will come to an understanding of their place within the natural world. In addition, the value of experiencing natural phenomena is frequently referred to by child psychologists who cite it as a factor in relieving stress in children and adults.” (Dudek, 1996, p. 107). The use of the natural environment in relation to children should try to be optimized, even in urban areas. In order to replicate a natural environment which may

not currently exist it is important to not be too precise. “Adult systems and metaphors that are too precise and therefore limiting to imaginative play [should be] avoided] “ (Dudek, 1996, p. 109), this would allow children to make into their own places. 5.Textures/light/colour The tendency in most architecture related to children, is the assumption that primary colour should be used widely and often as children respond to it. Whilst the above may be true, the following observations made by child developers and psychologists alike is that “senses tend to detect changes in stimulation rather than constant inputs; they function best on the basis of gradual environment which can be affected by light and colour.” And as result “stimulation must be gradual, as dramatic fluctuations can be over stimulating to older children, or at worst, frightening and disorientating to younger children.” (Dudek, 1996, pp. 110-111). Because the children psychiatric center programmatically deals with different children, many of whom suffer from over stimulation and under stimulation, a more neutral colour palette has been chosen, this again reinforces the “naturalness” of the place. The use of more stimulating colour will be limited to smaller details (as shown) and furniture. This will allow for easy removal of objects that may be over stimulating to the children.

FIG 048 : superceded sections showing how the various spaces within the building relate to children, homairah munsami, 2013.

Final drawings |

FIG 050 : animated section showing spaces in realtion to each other, homairah munsami, 2013.

P R O G R A M M I N G POTENTIAL The healing of the mind through the physical and visual connection with nature and the natural landscape is the conceptual informant in this project. Landscape within the scope of this project is considered to be that which is not building, and can be further broken down in to 3 parts : â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the wildernessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, the garden and the hard landscape. The architectural intervention in this project mediates between these various landscaped parts, and its own right develops 3 distinct building languages. Each language responds to the landscape in which it sits whilst simultaneously addressing programmatic requirements and characteristics. This response aims to create a [potentially inspiring] journey into intimate private retreat within a chaotic urban setting that assists the treatment of children with psychiatric disorders.

View 2 | The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hard landscapeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not entirely programmed becomes a place of potential enjoyment for children as well staff and parents. The steps for example can become impromptu stages during playtime. The hard nature is a continuation from the Training and Research division, whilst the vines and subtle planting starts a development towards a more softer landscape.

FIG 051 : homairah munsami, 2013.

View 3 | The placement of the rooms in which group interaction and teaching take place adjacent ‘the ‘garden’ landscape’ reinforces the idea of growth through self exploration and leaning. The children will take part in gardening sessions and learn how to interact in groups within these spaces.

FIG 052 : homairah munsami, 2013.

View 4 | Buildings sit “within” a recreated natural landscape , the “wilderness” .The building responds to this recreated landscape through its light structure. The outside space becomes a secondary counselling room, allowing children to play and run freely, taking part in self exploring and healing.

FIG 053 : homairah munsami, 2013.

View 5 | Buildings sit “within” a recreated natural landscape , the “wilderness”. this space , which drops below road level, becomes a quiet space, away from the public access, in line with the programmatic requirements for the safety of the children.

FIG 054 : homairah munsami, 2013.

FIG 055 : Site Plan, homairah munsami, 2013.

FIG 056 : Ground Floor Plan, homairah munsami, 2013.

FIG 057 : Section AA (above) & Section BB (below), homairah munsami, 2013.

FIG 058 : Section CC (above) & Section DD (below), homairah munsami, 2013.

FIG 059 : Technical Study , homairah munsami, 2013.

Conclusion | reflection Programming potential. In an attempt to search for an architecture that acts or facilitates therapy and healing, it is important to acknowledge that one accepts this only as a means to assist clinical healthcare treatments and services, which independently are vital. This dissertation started out as an engagement in a dialogue that searched for an architecture that could potentially provide a space in which healthcare services could be carried out efficiently (programme). Simultaneously, a space that could provide an experience and a satisfactory atmosphere to the staff, patients and visitors, one that they look forward to experiencing time and time again (potential). Initial thoughts on user consciousness and relationships between various people, specifically children, and the built environment was the starting theoretical discourse of this dissertation and the resulting understanding manifested itself through the design and technological construction of the each place. This dissertation starts to uncover potential answers to a fascination with not only the idea of the psychiatric institution in society, but also our experience with architecture as a whole. The ideas uncovered here are a primer for further studies and personal manifestations in architecture.

Bibliography | - Ando, T., 1995. A Wedge in Circumstances. In: Tadao Ando : complete works. London: Phaidon Press Limited, p. 444. - Ando, T., 1995. Light. In: Tadao Ando : complete works . London: Phaidon Press Limited, p. 470. - Bishops Preparatory, 2013. The History of Rondebosch, Cape Town: s.n. - Burroughs, J., 1989. The Gospel of Nature. s.l.:Applewood Books. - Canter, D., 1977. The Psychology of Place. London: The Architectural Press. - Corner, J., 2006. Terra Fluxus. In: C. Waldheim, ed. The Landscape Urbanism Reader. New York: Princeton Architectural Press, pp. 21-33. - Deacon, H., 1994. A history of the medical institutions on Robben Island, Cape Colony, 1846-1910. Cambridge: University of Cambridge. - Dudek, M., 1996. Kindergaten Architecture: Space for the imagination. London: E & FN Spon. - Edignton, B., n.d. The Well-Ordered Body:The Quest for Sanity through Nineteenth-Century Asylum Architecture, s.l.: s.n. - Edington, B., n.d. Architecures Quest For Sanity. Journal on developmental disabilities, 4(1), p. 22. - Foucault, M., 1988. Madness & Civilization: A history of insanity in the age of reason. New York: Vintage Books. - Frank, K. A. & R, B. L., 2007. Architecture from the Inside Out. Great Britain: John Wiley & Sons Ltd. - Gregory, R., 2006. Celebrating 10 Years of Maggies. Architectural Review, 220(1318), pp. 33-35. - Holl, S., 2000. Parallax. Basel: Birkhauser. - Kuczaj , S. A., 1991. Developmental Psychology : Childhood and Adolescence. New York: Macmillan Pub. Co. - Kutchins, H. & Kirk, S. A., 1992. The selling of DSM: the rhetoric of science in psychiatry. New York: A. de Gruyter. - Linn, C., 2010. Heres Hope. Architectural Record, 198(05), pp. 72-78. - Louw, J. & Swartz, S., 2001. An English asylum in Africa: Space and order in Valkenberg Asylum. History of Psychology, Volume 4 (1), pp. 3-23. - Meiss, P. v., 1990. Elements of Architecture : From form to place. London: E & FN Spon. - Mental Illness Definition, 2012. Mental Illness Definiton. [Online] Available at: http://www.mentalillnessdefinition.com/ [Accessed 9 September 2013]. - Moller, C. B., 1968. Architectural Environment and our Mental Health. New York: Horizon Press. - Murphy, R., 2011. Healthy Circulation. The Architectural Review, 230(1377), pp. 76-81. - Nesbitt, K., ed., 1996. Theorizing a New Agenda for Architecture : an anthology of architectural theory 1965-1995. New York: Princeton Architectural Press. - Norberg-Schulz, C., 1980. Genius Loci :towards a phenomenology of architecture. London: Academy Editions. - Pallasmaa, J., 1996. The eyes of the skin : architecture and the senses. London: Academu Editions. - Pallasmaa, J., 2000. Hapticity and Time. [Online] Available at: http://www.findarticles.com/cf_dls/m3575/1239_207/64720968/print. jhtml [Accessed 2 April 2013]. - Press, O. U., 2013. Oxford Dictionaries. [Online] Available at: http://oxforddictionaries.com [Accessed 7 April 2013]. - Schaik, L. v., 2008. Spatial Intelligence. Great Britain: John Wiley & Sons. - Seamon, D. & Mugerauer, R. eds., 1985. Dwelling, Place & Environment : Towards a Phenomenology of Person and World. New York: Columbia University Press. - Sine, D. M., 2009. Follwing the evidence towards better design. [Online] Available at: www.behaviorel.net [Accessed 11 April 2013]. - Swartz, S. G., 1996. Colonialism and the production of psychiatric knowledge in the Cape, 1891-1920 /. Cape Town: University of Cape Town Thesis Collection.

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Table of figures | All figures not referenced below are site photographs taken or drawings composed by the author - Homairah Munsami, Cape Town, 2013. 001 : Images of children’s psychiatric hospitals from top to bottom a. West Park Mental Hospital, 2008 , Mike Mclean England , viewed March 1st 2013, www.flicker.com /Urban Exploration :decay and ruins b. Bill Diodate : care of ward 81,2010, Amber Terraova, viewed March 1st 2013, http://pdnphotooftheday.com/2010/12/7522 c. Doll 1, San Lazaro Psychiatric Hospital, 2005, Hiroshi Watanabe, viewed March 1st 2013, http://www.hiroshiwatanabe.com/ d. Abandoned Mental Institution, 2012, Lune Froide, viewed March 1st 2013, http://www.lunefroide.fr/5424/abandoned-mentalinstitution.html e. St Ita’s psychiatric Hospital, 2006, Cormac Phelan , viewed March 1st 2013, http://www.flickr.com/ f. Sisters of Mercy Psychiatric Hospital, 1982, Serge Sunne, viewed 1st March 2013, http://fineartamerica.com/featured/sisters-ofmercy-psychiatric-hospital-in-december-1892-toledo-serge-sunne.html g. Cane Hill Psychiatric Hospital, Elle Dunn United Kingdome, viewed March 1st 2013, http://www.printreegallery.com/m5/ElleDunn/p590/Cane-Hill-Psychiatric-Hospital/product_info.html 009: The history of the psychiatric institution (international) a. Yanni, C., 2007. The Architecture of Madness : Insane Asylums in the United States. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota. b.Yanni, C., 2007. The Architecture of Madness : Insane Asylums in the United States. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota. c. Quakers in Action, viewed April 10th 2013, http://www.quakersintheworld.org/quakers-in-action/92 d. Trans- Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, viewed April 10th 2013, http://trans-alleghenylunaticasylum.com/ e. Helsinger Psychiatric Hospital, viewed April 10th 2013, http://www.arthitectural.com/plot-jds-big-helsing f. Treatment center for mentally disturbed children, hokkaido, japan, 2006 , sou fujimoto architects, viewed April 10th 2013, http://www.designboom.com/interviews/designboom-interview-sou-fujimoto/ 010: The history of the psychiatric institution (international) a. Deacon, H., 1994. A history of the medical institutions on Robben Island, Cape Colony, 1846-1910. Cambridge: University of Cambridge. b. Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital, Cape Town, viewed April 10th , http://doctors-hospitals-medical-cape-town-south-africa. blaauwberg.net/details.php?id=409 c.Tygerberg Hospital, Anthony Beunis Cape Town, viewed April 12th 2013, http://www.panoramio.com/photo/21466 011: Mental health Statistics South Africa a. Aerial Photograph of Tygerberg Hospital, Google Earth 7.1. 2013, Tygerberg Hospital 33o55’05.11”S, 18037’05.74” E , elevation 52m¬ b. Aerial Photograph Lenteguer Hospital , Google Earth 7.1. 2013, Lenteguer Hospital, 34o01’23.18”S, 18037’06 22” E, elevation 34m c. Tygerberg Hospital, Anthony Beunis Cape Town, viewed April 12th 2013, http://www.panoramio.com/photo/21466 d. Lenteguer Psychiatric Hospital in Mitchells Plain, Mary Jane Motsolo Cape Town, viewed April 12th 2013,

012 : Environmental Systems Research Institute. ArcGIS. Version 10. Redlands, CA: Environmental ,Systems Research Institute, Inc., 2002. 014: Environmental Systems Research Institute. ArcGIS. Version 10. Redlands, CA: Environmental ,Systems Research Institute, Inc., 2002. 018 : Seamon, D. & Mugerauer, R. eds., 1985. Dwelling, Place & Environment : Towards a Phenomenology of Person and World. New York: Columbia University Press. 019 : Schaik, L. v., 2008. Spatial Intelligence. Great Britain: John Wiley & Sons. 021 : images of senses : Enhancing the customer experience, Stuart Shelbs , viewed March 26th 2013, http://www.stuartselbst. com/2013/09/03/enhancing-the-customer-experience/ 022 : Department of Land Surveying & Geo- Informatics, Aerial photograph 1945 & 2012 ,Cape Town viewed April 10th 2013 023 - Department of Land Surveying & Geo- Informatics, Aerial photograph 1945 & 2012 ,Cape Town viewed April 10th 2013 037 : Superceded section through building showing material charactersitics of building a. Modern and luxury house design, 2010, viewed September 10th 2013, , http://modern-house-decoration.blogspot.com/ b. Vines across concrete ,2013 , Lucky poet, viewed September 10th 2013, http://www.flickr.com/photos/luckypoet/9010998829/ c .Casa Mar, 2012 , José Fernando Vázquez Pérez, viewed September 10th 2013, http://www.archdaily.com/205702/casa-marcoleman-davis-pagan-arquitectos/ d. Imagenes de Populas tremula, viewed September 10th 2013, http://www.fotosimagenes.org/populus-tremula e. Very Unique garden design, 2013, viewed September 10th 2013, http://mostbeautifulgardens.com/very-unique-contemporarygarden-design/ f. Graphisoft Park by Garten Studio 22, viewed September 10th 2013, http://www.landezine.com/index.php/2013/04/graphisoftpark-by-garten-studio/graphisoft-park-by-garten-studio-22-exposed-concrete/ g. Cullen Scuplture Garden, 2011, Kelly Minner, viewed September 10th 2013, http://www.archdaily.com/103349/architecturecity-guide-houston/ 042 : Maggie’s Centre, 2013 Architectural Record Image Gallery, viewed April 17th 2013, www.archrecord.construction.com 043 : The Monument War: Frank Gehry’s Eisenhower Memorial, 2012, viewed April 29th 2013 www.washintopost.com 044 : Maggie Centre Dundee: Frank Gehry, 2003 , Simon Glynn Galinsky , viwed April 29th 2013 www.galinsky.com. 049 : Ararat Lunatic Asylum , viewed March 1st 2013, http://www.flickr.com/

Appendix | A : Background Research related to the History of Mental Health & precedent | 18th Century | lunatic asylums The first form of treatment for people suffering from psychological disorders was in the practice of confinement. The 18th century is well known to be the ‘Age of Reason’, and as it was the age in which logic overshadowed all thoughts, “confinement is explained or at least justified, by the desire to avoid scandal” (Foucault, 1964, p. 62). Facilities to house the ‘insane’ as they were referred to were established very far from communities in order to isolate the mentally ill. These facilities however were not built for purpose, but rather were “established in and made use of existing buildings.” (Edington, n.d.) People with mental illnesses were seen as being a burden to communities, and in fact not able to contribute to bringing in any income. These patients were also treated like criminals and often chained in isolation. Instead of trying to heal and rehabilitate, they were shunned and made to feel as if they were a burden. These asylums were not designed to act as a place to heal but rather as a place to purely house the mentally ill away from society. In South Africa around the year 1846, a ‘general infirmary’ on Robben island was established which included a ‘lunatic asylum’ a chronic sick hospital and a leper asylum. This notion of isolating the mentally ill was translated into the Cape Colonial context. (Swartz, 1996)

19th Century | psychiatric hospitals Towards the end of the 18th century and beginning of the 19th century attitudes towards the treatment of the mentally ill started to change significantly. Doctors started to believe in the curing of mentally ill patients “but only if patients were treated in specifically designed buildings.” (Yanni, 2007, p. 1).

“Nineteenth-century psychiatrists considered the architecture of their hospitals, specially the planning, to be one of the most powerful tools for the treatment of the insane. Architects were challenged by this novel building type, which manifested a series of tensions between home and institution, benevolence and surveillance, medical progress and social control, nature and culture.” (Yanni, 2007, p. 1) The psychiatric hospital was now seen as a place that would rehabilitate and push people back into society. Through various spatial layouts and architectural decisions it aimed to maximise the amount of privacy and comfort for its patients. Whilst the 18th century ‘aslyums’ sought prison like methods of restraint and isolation to hide the mentally ill from society, the psychiatric hospital sought a more humane manner to rehabilitate. It was during this time that the idea of “moral treatment’ as a cure for the mentally ill was established. ‘Moral’ just like the word suggests sought for a treatment that put the patients’ needs first, and that allowed a patient to develop in a safe, carefully planned environment. The term ‘moral’ “meant rather that the new therapies applied to the mind, not the body, of the patient” (Yanni, 2007, p. 24). One of the main characteristics of such a treatment was the importance of the connection to the natural environment. And whilst many of these institutions were placed away from communities it was not purely to create seclusion, but also to maximise the amount of scenery and connection to landscape. Whilst psychiatric institutions were being established in America and around Britain, the Union of South Africa (1910-1961) also started to follow suit. Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital was established in 1891, and still functions today. It spatially took on the ‘cottage plan’ layout which consisted of clusters of buildings arranged according to their function which were connected by large hallways above ground or exterior pathways. (Yanni, 2007)

Around the middle of the 19th century more thought was given to people with psychological orders. The idea of treatment and care to rehabilitate and push people back into society rather than isolate was important. This lead the establishment of PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITALS which were places that sought to ensure maximum amount of privacy and comfort for patients through its architectural and spatial layout. Most hospitals either were spatially organised by the Kikbride Plan or the Cottage Plan

Kirkbride Plan Based on philosphy of “Moral Treatment” Typical floor plan consisted of long rambling wings which were staggered to allow sunlight and air to each wing. This layout was assumed to promote privacy and comfort for patients. Minimun communal interaction was present. Large imporsing Victorian Era instiutional buildings which sat on extensive grounds.

Cottage Plan Similar to its name cottage plan layout consists of clusters of buildings defined by their function which are linked to each other by large halways above ground or just exterioir pathtways.

FIG 049 : various layouts of 19th century psychiatric hospitals, images sourced from google images, complied by homairah munsami, 2013

20th Century | the abandoned institution: deinstitutionalisation Whilst moral treatment was used as a form of therapy, the introduction of medication (anti-psychotic) as a parallel form of treatment was introduced around the 1900’s. (Yanni, 2007) The psychiatric institution which was once seen as a beacon of hope for the cure of the mentally ill began to become overcrowded. With overcrowding and understaffing, neglect and abuse became characteristic of the psychiatric institutions and thus many of the institutions began to be abolished. Doctors and patients themselves started to favour an approach that put emphasis on community and home care (Yanni, 2007). Treatment for patients also started to take place at general hospitals and resulted in deinstitutionalisation. Whist ideally the community and home care treatment as a system would be ideal, realistically it is not always successful, especially in underdeveloped communities. In South Africa, the inclusion of a psychiatric ward in general hospitals became the standard practice; however psychiatric hospitals like Valkenberg still operate today. 21st century | The challenge to change society’s perception around psychiatric institutions as well as to challenge the idea of the ‘institution’ itself has begun to take place around the world, beginning with the way in which architects contextualize and spatially arrange new developments. However, in South Africa, whilst the treatment of the mentally ill takes place in the few existing psychiatric institutions, a vast majority of people are treated in general hospitals, whilst many also forgo treatment due to the stigma attached. Community care facilities which are turned into places of treatment are also not purpose built, but rather retrofitted and are often insufficient to treat patients. This insuffiency is a result of spaces not being user appropriate, or correctly sized

B : Interviews with various role players, pictures of the existing Red Cross Children’s Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and information regarding various disorders and subsequent treatments. Visit 1: Red Cross Children’s War Memorial Hospital Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Date: 14 March 2013 Subject – Introduction of the project to the Red Cross Children’s War Memorial Hospital Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry to seek approval.

Visit 3: Red Cross Children’s War Memorial Hospital Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Date: 17 July 2013 Subject - Interview with various key role players and walk about the division (Rod Anderson: Petrus de Vries: Zaida Damons: Fatima Obaray)

Visit 2: Red Cross Children’s War Memorial Hospital Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Date: 4 April 2013 Subject - Interview with Dr. Wendy Vogel (Head of Child Psychiatry, Red Cross Children’s Hospital)

Common spaces:

My interview with Dr. Wendy Vogel took place in a casual setting. I did not go with many questions, but rather allowed her to briefly elaborate on what the function of such a center is. Whilst she stated that although the current facilities allow for adequate treatment, she does acknowledge that it could be much better. One of the main problems was the size of the existing facilities, being too small and not stimulating enough for children. The distance from the existing main hospital was also a problem, especially for parents who utilize public transport. She briefly described the types of children that are seen (which will be described in more detail later). The building itself is also not inspiring to the staff, and should be. She informed me that a new site was allocated for the future development of the divisions next to the main hospital and that I should possibly look into that option too.

Current Problems: The entrance to the facility is extremely concealed and hidden. Parking from patients is across the road, opposite the Rondebosch Common and patients need to cross the road to enter through the front gate, which is slightly dangerous. Current entrance is split between to different buildings, A and B , but not for any specific reason as both buildings see the same age group of children, so this could be combined into one main entry. The waiting rooms are concealed and very institutional in aesthetic. The outdoor space and garden area should be carefully designed at this point especially for children and parents who have to wait for a longer period of time. The route from the reception area to the consultation rooms or various other parts of the building is dull and passages are narrow. Views to the outside should be considered.

Day & In-Patient unit: Therapeutic Learning Centre (for children up to the age of 13) Current Problems: Living spaces : More individual sleeping spaces (as opposed to group) are required as the grouping of children with various psychological disorders could be problematic. The children who reside in the inpatient unit are often the most disruptive and need their priavte spaces away from the rigid learning facilities. The needs to be only one access point to the living unit to allow for monitoring. The living spaces needs to look and feel more like a home rather than an institution. Safety and security is a key issue, but another way of allowing for this (not burglar bars) needs to be looked into. Height of windows needs to be considered as children can escape. The current flowing in the living spaces is carpeted, but should rather be timber flooring (soft) as children can easily harm themselves using the carpet. A waiting area for parents or family members who have children in the living unit needs to be considered. Outside space: The outside play area for the children in both the day unit and in-patient unit needs to be more exciting, bigger and inspiring to the child. A space for gardening as part of a learning process needs to be provided. Classroom spaces: The classroom should be adequate enough to cater for all children equally and also for two teachers. One who teachers and one who observes. The timeout rooms need to be in close proximity to the classroom, but not in a way that would disturb the other children. The current space does not have padded walls, which is a problem for children with anger issues. The space should be calming and peaceful, safe and bright. Dining Area : Currently the dining area is small. 84

Shared Spaces: Current problems: Art room: not enough space for all the children, and also would like space to display work (even throughout the center) Consultation rooms / Outpatient Unit Current Problem: The outpatient consultation rooms are very small and do not get a lot of sunlight, especially afternoon sun which the staff would like. They arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough consultation rooms. The spaces needs to adequate accommodation for a play space for the children which is away from the desk and chairs. The spaces also need to be safe and confidential considering the nature of the programme, as a result views out should be maximized whilst views in should be minimized. Training & Research Current Problem: The current facilities for the University of Cape Town students who wish to research and train at the division is very minimal and needs reevaluation. This inclusion into the new development means the current site becomes problematic as it is too small to accommodate an increase in programme.

Photographs of the existing Division showing the various interior and exterior spaces. The connection to the natural environment is very minimal, both physically and visually. The corridors are long and artifically lit, whilst the spaces inside appear dark and uninviting, homairah munsami, 2013.

C : Site Analysis: Klipfontein Road Street Edge

C : Site Analysis: Developing an approach to site with programme