Adelimar Cedeno-Laboy: Performing Arts Center for Children with Autism

Performing Arts Center for Children with Autism Adelimar Cedeno-Laboy Moore College of Art & Design Spring 2021

Description • The term ‘performing arts’ is defined as the type of arts that are performed in front of an audience such as dancing, singing, acting or instrument playing • Facility will function as an educational and therapeutical performing arts center for children with Autism between the ages of six and twelve • Build a community for children with autism in a safe, fun and educational environment where they will become more comfortable with social interactions.

• This facilities mission is to change the way society categorizes children with autism as ‘different’ and to inspire society to view children with any kind of disability as equal.

Autism Spectrum Disorder • Autism, also known as ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), is a neurological developmental disorder that can usually be diagnosed as early as the age of three • This disorder impacts the normal developmental part of the brain such as social skills, communication, and cognitive function • Though there is no cure for autism, early intervention and early treatment can be highly beneficial in the long run due to great improvements and sometimes even completely overcome the condition.

• The condition is a spectrum disorder meaning each person with ASD has different levels of strength and challenges, making every case different

Purpose • Develop socialization skills • Making friends is crucial for children with ASD as it not only helps improve their social skills and mental health, but can also help develop hobbies, interests and learn many different things from others.

• Build a community for ASD children and families • Many times, children with ASD may feel alone or left out because they are seen as different by others. Sharing interests and abilities with other children with ASD can help improve friendships and build a sense of belonging.

• Build self confidence • Building self-confidence in children with ASD can develop their social skills and become more open to forming friendships

Justification • Dance • Dance movement therapy can benefit children with ASD in improving their emotional, social, cognitive, and motor development • Instruments • Instrumental music is an expression through nonverbal communication. Since some children do not speak at all or learn speech at a much later age, this is an excellent and beneficial form of treatment to develop language and communication. Instrumental music is an expression through nonverbal communication.

• Singing • By listening to songs or rhythms, children with ASD can begin to process letters which later turn in words.

Rhythms and songs can also help children by learning how to whistle if speech is still a continuous barrier • Acting • Acting can encourage, emotional recognition, expression, nonverbal behavior, gestures, listening skills, eye contact, and strategies to handle social situations.

User groups • Primary user • children with autism – ages six through twelve • Secondary user • administration for enrollment purposes • program directors to help create and maintain the classes and activities of the facility • receptionist for security measures to ensure who’s coming in and out of the building and to help guide new parents to the administration offices • nurse for safety and injury purposes • dance, instrument, choir and acting instructors • autism specialist to record the development of the children and • report back to the parents about their child’s improvements • cashier working the cafe • maintenance staff • Tertiary user • parents, guardians or caregivers • Volunteers • guest speakers • guest instructors • delivery and service personnel (mail/package)

Program • Build Self-Confidence • Dance studios • Choir rooms • Acting rooms • Instrument rooms • Auditorium for performances • Backstage • Lighting and sound booth

• Build Community • Café • Sensory rooms • Activity areas • • • • • • •

Visual learning activities Verbal activities Therapeutic activities Reading area Ball pit Rockers Physical balancing activities

• Parent’s lounge • Locker rooms

Building site • The Rock School for Dance Education • Washington Square Neighborhood • 1101 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA • The Avenue of the Arts • 5 Floors • 39,000 square feet

Site map

• Key points • Public transportation in front of building and surrounding area • Many schools in close proximity • Many parks in close proximity

Concept In many ways we all use the performing arts as a way of release and healing to build a sense of relief in our daily lives. Children can benefit from the arts for their physical and mental well-being and build a sense of community among each other. By designing a space of movement and fluidity, the children can blossom into confident young adults.

Stacking Diagram

Reception

Café

Steelcase Capa Chair

Steelcase Wrapp Chair

Steelcase Hosu Lounge Chair

Steelcase Aleta Stool High Back

Café Carpet - Interface

Vinyl

Reception Carpet - Interface

Modular Sofa

Steelcase Hosu Lounge Chair

Knoll Womb Chair West Wall Elevation

Knoll Upholstery Massaud Work Lounge

Oslo Stool

Oslo Bench

Lagunitas Lounge

Enea Chair

Banquette Vinyl Back

Banquette Vinyl Seat

Steelcase Wrapp Chair

Trestle Bench

Steelcase Capa Chair

East Section

West Section

Thank You!