Advocates by Survivors Graduate Architecture Studio May 2017

ADVOCATES >promoting evidence based design in healing architecture volume III

>introduction The studio project explores the relationships between human well-being and architecture through design of a facility, the purpose of which is to support the rehabilitation of torture survivors. The application of evidence-based design methods is instrumental in creating environments that will have a direct impact on the users of the facility. Understanding the big ideas that contribute to each studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision for their project, as well as the literature regarding that subject, has greatly strengthened each of our proposals. By successfully applying research and literature to each building, the body of knowledge compiled by the studio allows us to advocate for the importance of human-centered architecture, specifically as it relates to a user group that is often marginalized.

THE AUTHORS a unified effort

may 8, 2017 new seaton construction

may 6, 2017 tuttle creek camping

may 5, 2017 auntie maeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parlor

november 2, 2016 san francisco from alcatraz island

may 5, 2017 photo booth

TABLE OF CONTENTS volume III CHAPTER I _ farmstead _ levi caraway _ horticultural therapy

CHAPTER VII _ reflect _ sarah kershner _ meditation & mindfulness

CHAPTER II _ together _ rachel gordon _ women & children

CHAPTER VIII _ children _ shruti kumar _ play & animal therapy

CHAPTER III _ voice _ brianna grimm _ music therapy

CHAPTER IX _ purpose _ ethan moulder _ horticultural & animal therapy

CHAPTER IV _ water _ nicole harris _ hydrotherapy

CHAPTER X _ strength _ sydell paul _ physiotherapy & ecotherapy

CHAPTER V _ creation _ mathew heatherly _ recreational therapy

CHAPTER XI _ play _ blake wilson _ play & social therapy

CHAPTER VI _ growth _ journi johnson _ horticultural therapy

BIBLIOGRAPHY

CHAPTER I >farmstead levi caraway

Farmstead promoting health through horticultural therapy >introduction Recent tension in the middle east and African has pushed families to abandon home and flee to safer space. Sadly not everyone can avoid what such tensions bring; politically fueled torture has directly impacted 1.4 million refugees in the USA alone. While some find treatment for the physical trauma to continue a regular life, refugee camps and most of the USA lack the correct setting to treat the depth of psychological trauma that comes with torture. Providing a healing environment where survivors can escape and find comfort is essential to a full recovery. This project seeks to explore how designed spaces can promote therapeutic and social interactions to create better possibilities for a healing environment and support recovery.

>background Torture is defined as the systematic and deliberate infliction of acute pain in any form by one person to another in order to accomplish the purpose of the former against the will of the latter” (Association for the Prevention of Torture) It comes with intense lasting effects. Physical reminders and psychological damage can prevent survivors from caring for themselves, their families, or contributing to their community in any way. (The Center for Victims of Torture). One prominent detriment is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) which alone includes flashbacks, severe anxiety, and depression. Disassociation, substance abuse, psychosis, and plenty more also plague many survivors. (Symptoms of PTSD) Some people recover within weeks while others may experience symptoms for the rest of their lives. Many therapies are utilized for the treatment of these symptoms and many show promising results: General psychological counseling includes an evaluation and follow-up care, healing groups bring people together and necessitate support amongst one another, and varying therapy sessions seek to involve the community through local institutions and volunteer professionals interacting with enjoyable activities. (“PVTLA | Healing Lives”) Atypical, but of rising popularity, is the use of horticultural therapy for the treatment of PTSD.

figure 1. refugees welcome

>therapy Horticulture is the art or practice of garden cultivation and management. Horticultural therapy is the engagement of a client in horticultural activities facilitated by a trained therapist to achieve specific and documented treatment goals. (American Horticultural Therapy Society) A developed Horticultural Therapy program provides the tools for: increased physical activity, increased social activity, increased cognitive functioning, increased relatedness to the natural world. Research at Kansas State University, among others, show that involvement in therapeutic horticulture programs maintains or improves life satisfaction and the quality of life of participants. The therapeutic use of horticulture also has the benefit of creating a calming ground for the exploration of traumatic memories. It provides a tangible and present safe space within which the past traumas can be explored without overpowering the present. (Lorber, 2001) This creation of a tangible present is crucial; allowing survivors to produce negative connotations of a space through negative experiences can prevent it from becoming a healing place for them in the

figure 2. horticulture time

Dale, a Vietnam vet: “I have been flower gardening for a few months now since I’ve moved to Southern California from Chicago. I was depressed in Chicago, as one can imagine with the long winters stuck indoors. I do feel better now that I’m doing my yardwork, planting seeds and flowers ...Not so depressed anymore; I don’t have time for it!” (“Healing Combat Trauma.”) future. The biophilic related benefits of interaction with these crops within a green environment aids in the creation of a healing environment. Biophilia is mankind’s innate biological connection and love of nature. Be it a crackling fire or the sound of waves, nature tends to produce a calm within people. Research supports a measurable positive impact between biophilic design on health and the effect of the human-nature connection. 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design describes three forms in which nature may impact a design: nature in the space, natural analogues, and nature of the space. Relating to these biophilic qualities has potential to reduce stress, improve cognitive function and creativity, improve our well-being and expedite healing (“14 Patterns of Biophilic Design.”).

figure 3. views out

>healing place gesler Wilbert M. Gesler describes the concept of healing in Healing Places, remarking on various aspects: one should recognize the multidimensional character behind every person, one must heal from within, one must find wholeness, and one must continuously find meaning in one’s own life. Achieving and maintaining these will propagate a healthy person. Within the multidimensional idea of healing is physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social. All aspects effect ones overall health, and catering to one can help ease the trouble of the others. Creating a healing environment similarly has multiple aspects: natural, built, symbolic, and social. People have long believed the natural environment to have healing qualities; aside from the aesthetic pleasure, windows looking to nature in hospital rooms have shown to increase the rate of recovery as compared to rooms without views out. (Ulrich,1984) The built environment calls for creating trust and

figure 4. healing place

“Involvement with nature – whether experienced in the wilderness, or as “nearby nature” viewed passively through a window – reduces stress and increases an overall sense of well-being - (Lorber, Howard Z.) security within, requiring a symbolic power behind the design that appeals to the senses. Symbolic environment references the creation of meaning within objects and rituals, thus elements within the natural and built environments and what they might mean to an individual is the source of the symbolic environment. Social environment asks for equality of individuals and calls for support amongst one another in a communal group. As social creatures, people draw comfort from the company and acceptance we can bring to one another.

Body

>architectural idea The Garden Community. Drawing from less rigid architecture, the design references the organic generation of buildings in relation to one another within a farming community. Spaces grow from one another and create interstitial areas that become spaces of their own.

>vision statement To provide a community interacting and healing through the transformative effects of biophilia and horticultural therapy.

>discussion Horticultural therapy has increased in popularity in recent years (Sourby). Various forms can be encompassed to not only ease symptoms related to PTSD, but also allow a medium for social interaction, provide education towards a potential employment opportunity, engage one in a meaningful activity in contact with living things, and result in healthy food an individual can take home and share (AHTA). Other varieties of horticulture that would occur in these fields include therapeutic horticulture, social horticulture, and vocational horticulture. Therapeutic horticulture is the use of horticultural activities through which an individual strives for improved well being without any specific end goal or therapist, however a leader of sorts may be around to keep the idea in mind (AHTA). A farmer is employed to keep a general care of the site, as well as tracking and listing what needs attention for use by the

figure 5. social horticulture

horticultural therapists and their patients; this person has the potential to take this leadership role in maintaining a positive atmosphere and general focus while working the farm. Social horticulture is a more leisurely exercise that focuses on social interactions within the horticultural activities (AHTA). The building is situated centrally within the site, making its therapeutic fields an extension of the existing Gill Tract Community Farm. The proximity to Gill Tract Community Farm connects to their community, inviting them in and increasing the connections one can make through the Farmstead. Social and therapeutic horticulture would be free to practice for anyone at the site

figure 6. sensory overload

figure 7. building dividing site

and have already been utilized in some form by the Gill Tract Community Farm volunteers and participants. They allow for the extension of therapies outside of scheduled times within the Farmstead, which can in turn increase the feeling of community in its more open availability. Vocational horticulture, which is often a large part of therapy programs, provides training that may allow individuals to pursue professional horticultural jobs upon leaving the program (AHTA). The therapists and farmer are here to provide therapy as well as teach survivors about horticulture; developing work habits and mastery of related academic areas (“The Use of Horticulture in Vocational Rehabilitation.”). Sticking to a credited program, survivors can leave healed and in a position to find employment in a field they may not have otherwise been accredited. These different horticultural activities would coincide with the main focus of healing through horticultural therapy, creating an atmosphere of both community and self betterment that

can reach beyond the boundaries of the Farmstead property. Discussing the design of the built environment, overly complex environments can sometimes cause a “sensory overload”, particularly in sufferers of PTSD (Michelle Houston). Simplicity of the larger form of the building- a light box penetrated by a heavy bar- within which the more organic forms are contained creates complexity and order, allowing it to be easy to understand as a whole from within. The box and bar seek to produce a powerful image, a symbol to inspire a sense of trust from those involved with the building. The form also serves to create barriers around therapy spaces, only opening to a visual connection with the southern trees and the Gill Tract community farm to the east. This orientation immerses visitors within the green of the site. A gradual and gentle compression into the bar emphasizes the release as you enter the two story space of the box and its open floor plan and its plentiful views out. Among the stacked

rooms, varying degrees of enclosure on all sides and their creation of non-rhythmic views through to the exterior references a natural situation in a biophilic design move, mimicking the varying canopy and site lines one might experience within a grove of trees. Spaces between rooms become refuge nooks where one can retreat from the main spaces, creating planned social interactions within the classrooms and unplanned without. The thermal mass of the floor catches and releases heat in different areas dependent on the time of day, paired with the variability of airflow through the stacked rooms creates different experiences as the day passes. The presence of water at the entry and atrium have a calming effect on visitors and reflect light into the space. The enclosure made by the facade treatment and specific use of skylights create dynamic and diffused light throughout the spaces, as well as they provide more or less privacy dependent on the space within. The spaces on top of the bar allow for both refuge and prospect, taking a visitor out of the main flow of the area and allowing an unimpeded view out from the site. (â&#x20AC;&#x153;14 Patterns of Biophilic Design.â&#x20AC;?)

figure 8. entry compression

>conclusion The creation of a Center for Survivors of Torture with a focus on horticultural therapy and related activities has tremendous potential to produce a healing environment. Applying biophilic design principles within a garden focused community setting, survivors can escape the busy world and the trauma of their past to focus on personal health and recovery.

figure 9. showing the gill tract community farm

bibliography

chapter I

TEXT --

IMAGERY --

AHTA. “Chapter I. Organization Of Positions.” The War of Positions (n.d.): n. pag.

Title Image. “The Millet Project: Where Have All the Grains Gone?” Past Projects. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Apr. 2017. “Posts about Plant Seeds on From the Desk of MarDrag.” From the Desk of MarDrag. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Apr. 2017.

AHTA Position Paper. AHTA, 2007. Web. 9 Dec. 2016. “Symptoms of PTSD.” Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA. Anxiety and Depression Association of America, Apr. 2016. Web. 09 Dec. 2016. Lorber, Howard Z. “The Use of Horticulture in the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in a Private Practice Setting.” Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 21.1: n. pag. Web. 13 Dec. 2016. “Healing Combat Trauma.” Healing Combat Trauma. N.p., 6 Nov. 2010. Web. 13 Dec.

figure 2. Admin. “Aur verde de grădină.” Devoționale. ro. N.p., 24 Apr. 2017. Web. 03 May 2017. figure 3. Letras en el desierto. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 May 2017.

Wikimedia

figure 4. Wilbert M. Gesler. “Healing Places Paperback – March 1, 2003.” Healing Places: Wilbert M. Gesler Amazon.com: Books. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 May 2017.

Sourby, Charles A., MS Ed. CTRS. “Horticultural Therapy.” Encyclopedia of Quality of Life and WellBeing Research (2014): 2926. Recreation Therapy. 27 Feb. 2008. Web. 28 Mar. 2017.

figure 5. “Sustainable Garden.” South Bay Junior Academy – Private School – Private Christian School – Middle School – Elementary School. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 May 2017.

Ulrich, R. “View through a window may influence recovery from surgery.” Science 224.4647 (1984): 42021. Web.

figure 6. SavingSavannah. “Sensory Overload.” Saving Savannah. N.p., 20 Nov. 2016. Web. 03 May 2017.

“Biophilia Hypothesis.” Wikipedia. Foundation, n.d. Web. 13 Dec. 2016.

“14 Patterns of Biophilic Design.” Terrapin Home Terrapin Bright Green. N.p., 12 Sept. 2014. Web. 05 Apr. 2017. “The Use of Horticulture in Vocational Rehabilitation.” Virginia Tech Department of Horticulture. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Apr. 2017.

figure 1. Redaktionsteam, Awo-brandenburg.de. “AWO Brandenburg e.V.” Unser Handeln. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 May 2017.

figure 7. Caraway, Levi. Site Plan. Advocatespromoting evidence based design in healing architecture. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 8. Caraway, Levi. Entry Compression. Advocates-promoting evidence based design in healing architecture. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 9. “The Millet Project: Where Have All the Grains Gone?” Past Projects. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Apr. 2017.

Final proposal levi caraway

First Floor

CHAPTER II >healing architecture for women & children rachel gordon

together

healing architecture for women & children

figure 1. lack of peace

>introduction Around the world there are wars and political terror aimed at individuals because of political stance, race, sex, and religion resulting in people fleeing their home country. There are so many refugees that they cannot be ignored by everyone. A number of refugees have come here to the United States for help and safety. Many of these individuals have been tortured or have been affected by torture. The effects of torture are numerous, with the aim always psychological torture even if physical torture is also involved. The effects of torture culminate into a lack of peace. Many things are happening or lacking in their lives that have been turned upside down. They have been taken away from their homes, friends, and loved ones (Beneath the Blindfold). Perhaps they have been betrayed. Some of the people they care about are also being tortured or threatened. They themselves have experienced bodily harm, degrading and humiliating acts, and have been mentally terrorized and stripped of security and self-worth. Sometimes this has lasted for years (Association for the Prevention of Torture; Goleman). And yet they survived. 30

>background Part of surviving has been to flee to the United States. Alameda County, California, has the second largest population of refugees in the San Francisco Bay area (Survivors: Healing Architecture In Response To Political Torture). The top three populations of refugees come from Somalia, Iran, and Mexico, but many people from other countries have fled to the area as well. Women and children have unique needs for community and support in their healing process. In these places of political instability, women are often twice as likely to be targets of torture or violence as men simply because of their gender. Families are often broken up, with fathers imprisoned or killed. Sometimes only part of the family is eligible for asylum resulting in one parent or some of the kids left behind in their home country. If it is the mothers who flee with their children, they are the sole provider for their children in an unfamiliar culture trying to learn how to navigate and get the help they all need. The children feel vulnerable and protective of each other, making it hard to make new friends. Who could understand what they have gone through?

figure 2. site location

>healing vision The Center of Healing will focus on single parent families (women and their children) who have experienced or been influenced by torture and are seeking help to heal and rebuild their lives holistically. This means physically, spiritually, socially, financially, legally, emotionally, and mentally. Somehow they have made it back to society to live a normal life, but their life is not normal. They just need some peace.. Their life before was difficult to bear, but now it haunts them every day through little episodes of tortureâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;one right after another. They are overwhelmed and in need of help or resources on multiple fronts in order to find peace in their lives.

figure 3. peace

>visitors

figure 4. aamino

figure 5. hibah

_ aamino

_ hibah

Aamino is a 30 year-old Somalian woman, who has refugee status and is seeking asylum for herself and her five kids. Her husband is a farmer who was retained overseas with two of their kids. Aamino is in a new city and country where they know no one. Part of their family is missing and yet Aamino must focus on caring for the ones who are with her. The legal processes they are involved in to protect themselves are demanding and take a long time and it doesn’t help that they identify as Sunni Muslims. Will they have to go back? Will they have to endure the torture again? When will they finally be safe? When can they put this behind them? Aamino is overwhelmed with her situation and needs help. Her kids haven’t made any friends to play with at home and there is no one for Aamino to talk to as a friend (Hauksson 18). Her family has medical needs that demand attention, how are they going to afford the medical care? The doctors may not specifically ask about torture or abuse, so the subject doesn’t come up (Ward). The doctor doesn’t know their life or perhaps doesn’t understand their culture, so there is no way for her to know, but Aamino doesn’t know if torture is relevant at this point in time, so she would rather not bring it up (Hauksson 9; Herman, M.D. 13).

Hibah is a 21 year-old woman from Iraq. Her husband is a pastor back home and is imprisoned. Hibah identifies herself as a Christian and is a refugee seeking asylum here in the United States. The neighbors upstairs are constantly banging around. The noise brings back memories of her village being bombed or of the metal pipe clanging against the chair before she was finally beaten. The nightmares torment her throughout the night and several times a day by the way someone looks or says a word, or a certain smell or object trigger a bad memory. Sometimes the memory is so bad she forgets it isn’t happening at that moment (Hauksson 21; Herman, M.D. 37). Why did this happen to her? Their lives could have been normal. It is not their fault, but she wonders if it is. They could have given up their faith. The words of her tormentor haunt her thoughts (Herman, M.D. 94; Hauksson 20).

new clothes. The school is having another field trip and the church has a youth activity. How can they afford their kids to attend those? How can they make sure their kids are able to live a normal and happy life and not feel like they are missing out?

figure 6. maria

_ maria Maria is a 33 year-old woman who fled Mexico with her 4 kids (Anna 11, Elizabeth 8, Antonio 4, Carlos 2). Her husband died one year ago, after being repeatedly imprisoned for various lengths of time by the authorities. She is suffering from injuries the last time the authorities barged into their home to take her husband away. She identifies herself as a Roman Catholic and is seeking permanent residency in the United States for herself and her children. They don’t know anyone in their building. It is so terrifying to think about introducing themselves to their neighbors (Hauksson 9). There is so much anger towards Mexicans, and it doesn’t matter that they are here legally. The question of “Will they have to go back?” is always on Maria’s mind. She doesn’t want her kids to endure the persecution anymore. How can she keep her jobs with this kind of mental stress and physical disability? With no job, they cannot provide their family with a place to live or something to eat. After all, she is all her kids have now. Maria is unfamiliar with ways in which they can receive help (Ward). She works several jobs trying to make ends meet and barely sleeps. Her health is getting worse, but there is no time to deal with that because other things are more pressing. Their kids are growing which means they need bigger shoes and

figure 7. anna

_ anna Anna is the eleven year-old daughter of Maria. She is the oldest child and helps her mother take care of her younger siblings. She is scared of the move to the new place with strange people and customs. She would like to make some friends with kids who won’t look at her funny when they find out about her past. She has a hard time trusting people, especially those in authority. She might finally make friends at school and church, but it’d hard to keep friends with no quality time. Her family doesn’t have money to afford a lot of traveling by public transportation, a car, and her mother doesn’t have much time to spare between jobs. Some people try to help with different things, but it makes their life harder because they don’t understand what they need. Why don’t they ask? People tend to help once or a twice before they are never heard from again. Perhaps it is because their sense of obligation to help has been met (Ward). Why won’t anyone stick around and get to know them? Nothing seems to be constant in her life. 33

>staff _ alejandra Alejandra is the Director of the Center of Healing for Torture Survivors. She is 44 years old and is the person who keeps the Center keep running. Her charisma and contacts makes her an invaluable resource to her staff. She drives to work.

figure 8. alejandra

_ david David is 31 years old and is in charge of coordinating programs at the Center. He is responsible for creating the program schedules, getting volunteers, and making sure everyone has a chance to try new things.

figure 9. david

_ daniel Daniel is a teacher on staff at CHTS. He is 35 years old of Somalian nationality. Daniel teaches Art and leads Art Therapy Sessions. He uses public transportation

figure 10. daniel

_ michelle Michelle is a Therapist at the Center. She is 29 years old and specializes in therapies such as Splankna, Play Therapy, and Talk Therapy for individuals and groups. She drives to work

figure 11. michelle

>volunteers _ hannah Hannah is a member of the Albany, California community and regularly volunteers to teach health and nutrition classes at the Center. She lives within walking distance.

figure 12. hannah

_ martha Martha is a long-time member of the Bay Area Community. She is 53 years old and emigrated from Ethiopia several years ago. Martha volunteers in several capacities which includes: giving tours, welcoming new visitors, and helping Coordinators as needed.

figure 13. martha

>therapies

_ play therapy

The Center of Healing for Torture Survivors will incorporate both traditional and non-traditional therapy approaches to trauma healing. The time-honored therapies include and Play Therapy and Therapeutic Communities The nontraditional therapies includes Art Therapy and Splankna.

Children who survive severe trauma are often resilient, but dealing with the trauma as soon as possible prevents many potential issues from coming up later in life. Play therapy is a way in which trauma can be dealt with while keeping the child in a relaxed state. There is not as much pressure for the child and there is less of a chance that emotions and ideas will be projected onto the children. The therapy is on the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terms and done at their pace when they are comfortable (Huston).

_ therapeutic community Traditionally, Therapeutic Communities are used in situations where people suffer from addiction. However, the idea behind it is that you meet with a group of people who have gone through something similar enough to what you have gone through that they can understand your situation. It also encourages people in different stages of the healing process to come together, so encouragement, hope, and resources can be shared. People are encouraged to be responsible to each other for helping heal and stay on the right track; to be there for each other physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The ideas behind this are perfect for people who have experienced trauma or political torture.

_ art therapy Art Therapy contributes to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of a person. It is a form of expressive therapy that, depending on the person, can be helpful in healing, treatment, psychotherapy, and, broadly, to bring things to the surface that results in a better understanding of oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self. Painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, etc. are most often used, however a broad range of expressive art forms and materials/tools can be used. This type of therapy is good for parents and children to do together; to heal together or make something together. It helps to strengthen and/ or repair the relationship between them. 36

_ splankna Women who survive trauma are strong. But in order to survive and get their children through it with them, they often put aside their own needs. They compartmentalize and bury their emotions in order to cope. Therefore, healing involves finding those buried emotions and dealing with them. And through many traditional therapies, this is a long, drawn out process. Splankna is a mind-body work that combines prayer and energy psychology protocols such as TFT, NET, and EMDR. It tends to work quickly with severe trauma patients and involves dealing with emotional trauma that is physically stored. It is a holistic approach to healing emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Splankna can be done anywhere that is private without much distraction (Thiessen).

>healing place Geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concept of healing can be thought of as a holistic process that connects and integrates the physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of the human being. This process is ongoing, must be meaningful and have a humanistic approach, and comes from within. The path to healing involves more than just a cure. The scientific and medical community is only beginning to discover the connections and implications that the different aspects of the body have on each other. Gesler also claims that healing always happens in a place, therefore, place also has an important contribution to healing. There are four types of environments that Gesler identifies as being important to making a healing place: natural, built, symbolic, and social. A natural environment is simply engaging with nature. This can be through water, an isolated place surrounded by nature, working in a garden, having views to nature outside, or gardens. A built environment includes things such as access to natural light, fresh air, accommodations for staff, clean rooms, etc. A symbolic environment is described as a flag that invokes patriotism or a cross that inspires religious action. And lastly, a social environment is described as a place for people to choose to gather and talk with one another or engage in some sort of activity together. Since architecture is the practice of making place, architecture can also affect healing (Gesler).

figure 14. holistic healing

figure 15. center of healing for torture survivors

>architectural vision I propose that the Center of Healing EMBRACE torture survivors into a community of fellowship in order to REDEEM their lives through freedom from the past and be INSPIRED toward a future of hope and peace.

The Center of Healing for Torture Survivors will be a Refuge Amidst the Garden. This speaks to the safety and peace that these women and children are looking for. Materiality plays an important part in creating a symbolic environment at the entry to the Center. The steel and concrete construction is symbolic of strength and safety while the wood used at the entry and throughout the building indicates warmth and a welcoming posture. The colored concrete panels lighten the mood of the concrete while reflecting the playfulness of children, making the Center inviting to them as well.

The site itself easily lends itself to creating a natural environment for healing. There are both flower and vegetable gardens to walk through and work in. There are walking paths through the site and smaller, more private places of refuge where visitors can go to be surrounded by nature and be amidst gardens. One of those places, to the south, nods toward the sacred Ahlone Circle already occupying the site. Another place is a non-denominational chapel for praying, or reflecting, with smaller garden spaces surrounding it. The Center has a quieter zone on the north of the building, which includes the library, counseling and meeting spaces, and administration spaces. The more active part of the building is to the south and includes the classrooms, playroom, and kitchen. Each occupied room in the building has access to daylighting and nature. All circulation paths are along the interior of the building facing the courtyards and are broken up with views to nature outside and sitting areas for social interaction or waiting for appointments. There is a direct path from the front entry of the building to the east side where the rest of the site can be occupied. Access to the kitchen is along this main circulation path. The building has a kitchen and an eating space at its center as the main social space. One question to answer is if architecture can promote a therapeutic community. In the case of the Center of Healing, there are women and children from multiple cultures coming to the Center of Healing so the kitchen becomes the heart of the Center due to the universal and social aspect of food. Food brings people together. Eating a meal together is fellowship. Food grown in the community garden (on site) can be used, as well as the herbs from the herb gardens in the smaller courtyard, incorporating the therapeutic aspects of growing and gathering of

figure 16. site

figure 17. kitchen & dining

figure 18. kitchen

food in the garden. Sharing a common activity, such as cooking and eating a meal together, helps lower the cultural barriers and helps the families bond with one another, creating an opportunity for making friends who have gone through something similar. Now each family is no longer alone, but has a community to share life with and heal with. The major design implications for designing a kitchen for multiple users comes from Healing Dignity website. Things such as ample floor space, generous countertops, multiples of things (cooktops, ovens, dishwashers, sinks, etc.), storage for larger items, and shared food storage. It was recommended that for many users, four feet between counters is ideal to allow for easier flow of traffic and the amount of people cooking together (Healing Dignity). While a kitchen this large may have to act like a commercial kitchen, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to feel like one. Wood floors, colorful cabinets, tile work, and granite and chopping block countertops make the kitchen much more welcoming than the sterile stainless steel found in commercial kitchens. The kitchen is not just a space for adults, however. Children are encouraged to participate as well, with built-in steps stools in the cabinets, sink handles within reach, and drawers at multiple levels. For events and large social gatherings, the kitchen has panel doors that open up to the south and interacts with the large courtyard. The kitchen can facilitate a community that crosses cultural boundaries to help embrace a healing community for the whole family. Children are still developing and need to be able to be active and travel with a safe amount of freedom and independence to continue to develop in a healthy manner. This means that a space designed for children should be large, and allow for free movement from one activity to another, while still allowing or supervision. This 40

also means that they should be allowed to guide themselves to other places and activities in a safe manner, such as to the playground from a courtyard or the indoor play area to the soccer field (Children and Their Environments). This is why the large courtyard opens to the playground and the playroom opens to the large courtyard. The kids can safely travel to these different areas while still being safe within the wall. A path from the east side of the building, where the playroom is located, leads to the soccer field so that kids can run ahead to play while being in full view of the staff and parents coming along behind them. These design implications are also why the playroom is a large room, open for variety in play (and play therapy) and allows for clear sight-lines of the staff and parents watching the children. There is also childsized furniture (tables and chairs) for play therapy and other activities as well. The built-in play structure lets kids work off energy indoors, move through smaller spaces, and encourages imagination. There are multiple â&#x20AC;&#x153;windowsâ&#x20AC;? in the built-in play structure to let in light, let kids peek into the playroom from multiple perspectives, and lets adults look in to check on kids inside. There are windows that allow for views outside to nature, incorporating the natural environment, and windows to the kitchen that creates a visual connection between kids and their parents when they are not together.

figure 19. playroom

The library is part of the building program that is intended to inspire women and children to a future of hope and peace. Windows open up to the small courtyard gardens as well as the gardens on the site and allow natural lighting and visual access to nature. There are nooks for reading by windows and a sitting area to allow for quiet social interaction, book readings, etc. Beside the sitting area is an area for kids to tuck themselves into nooks to read. There are also four rooms that function as flexible spaces for reading, therapy sessions, or meeting spaces where mothers can meet with social workers, lawyers, prospective employers, etc. each space has access to daylighting and views to nature. These rooms also allow for a space for kids to read or play in sight, but not in hearing, of their parents for those meetings that need to be private with the mother. The books found in the library contain material relevant to children and adults. Specifically for the women are legal and medical resources. Having access to these resources empowers them to take their future into their own hands by being able to understand what is needed to help their families and to be prepared when talking to different professionals (Ward).

figure 20. library meeting room & play area

Administration occupies a larger portion of the building than one might originally expect, however, this is to ensure that the Center is being run efficiently. Many places that are intended to assist others are understaffed (Ward). Many times this is due to budgetary concerns. This Center was designed to include the ideal and necessary staff to run the Center, including and office for a financial coordinator whose sole job is to coordinate funding to keep the Center running at its height. This is part of the built environment as was discussed in Gesler’s concept of healing (Gesler). There are offices for the coordinators who run the programs, classes, and therapies at the Center, counselor’s offices who are retained on staff, director’s office, and volunteer areas. There is also a staff breakroom to be conscious of the staff’s need to rest and heal after interacting with traumatic pasts and situations of the women and children who visit (Huston). This is a safe, healing place for the staff and promote community.

>conclusion The terror and increase in refugees around the world is begging someone to address their cries for help. Architecture can contribute to the healing of these individuals and families through the making of a healing environment. The Center of Healing for Torture Survivors embraces the women and children who visit and promotes healing through the natural, built, symbolic, and social environments it creates in its spaces. These environments enable specific therapies to redeem the terrible past, resources to inspire them toward a future of hope and peace, and the support from staff and volunteers to help make it all happen.

Bibliography chapter II TEXT --

IMAGERY --

2016-2017 Fifth Year Survivor Studio. Survivors: Healing Architecture In Response To Political Torture. Manhattan, Ks: Blurb, 2016.

figure 1. Gordon, Rachel. Lack of Peace. Kansas State University, Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital.

Association for the Prevention of Torture. A Legal Definition of Torture. n.d. 26 August 2016. <http:// www.apt.ch/en/what-is-torture/>.

figure 2. Gordon, Rachel. Site Location. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital.

Children and Their Environments. n.d. Goleman, Daniel. 25 April 1989. http://www. nytimes.com/1989/04/25/science/grim-specialtyemerges-as-therapists-treat-victims-of-torture. html?pagewanted=all. 26 August 2016.

figure 3. Gordon, Rachel. Peace. Kansas State University,.Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital.

Hauksson, Petur. n.d. http://www.cpt.coe.int/en/ working-documents/cpt-2003-91-eng.pdf. 26 August 2016. Healing Communies. n.d. Helaing Dignity. Healing Dignity. 2014 2017. February 2017. Herman, M.D., Judith Lewis. Trauma and Recovery. New York: Basic Books, 1992. Huston, Michelle. PTSD and Counseling Survivor Studio. 2016. Thiessen, Sarah J. Splankna. Rockwall, Texas: CrossHouse Publishing, 2011. Whole Building Design Guide. n.d. *All unmarked images & diagrams by Rachel Gordon

figure 4. Gordon, Rachel. Aamino. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. with reference to: Hiiran Online. Somali Refugees In Kenyan Camps Queue Up To Return Home. Web. Accessed 26 Oct. 2016. figure 5. Gordon, Rachel. Hibah. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. with reference to figure 6. Gordon, Rachel. Maria. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. with reference to Once & Future Mexico. Mexican Women Face A Tough Future. Web. Accessed 26 Oct. 2016. figure 7. Gordon, Rachel. Anna. Kansas State University,.Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. with reference to Brian. Selling Trinkets. 2008. Photograph. Chichicastenango, Guatamala. Hey Brian. Accessed 26 Oct. 2016. figure 8. Gordon, Rachel. Alejandra. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. with reference to Gordon, Stacy. Untitled. 2012. Photograph. Joplin, MO.

figure 9. Gordon, Rachel. David. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. with reference to Klein, Amanda. Untitled. 2016. Photograph. Joplin, MO. figure 10. Gordon, Rachel. Daniel. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 11. Gordon, Rachel. Michelle. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. with reference to Ngoh, Cheryl-lyn. Untitled. 2016. Photograph. Manhattan, KS.

figure 18. Gordon, Rachel. Kitchen. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 19. Gordon, Rachel. Playroom. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 20. Gordon, Rachel. Library Meeting Room and Play Area. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. *All unmarked images and diagrams by Rachel Gordon

figure 12. Gordon, Rachel. Hannah. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. with reference to Cooper, Victoria. Untitled. 2017. Photograph. Joplin, MO. figure 13. Gordon, Rachel. Martha. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital with reference to: The Kitchen Salon. Portrait of a Mature Woman With Grey Hair Smiling In A Casual Hooded Top. 2014. Accessed 26 Oct. 2016. figure 14. Gordon, Rachel. Holistic Healing. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 15. Gordon, Rachel. Center of Healing for Torture Survivors. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 16. Gordon, Rachel. Site. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 17. Gordon, Rachel. Kitchen and Dining. Kansas State University. Together: Healing Architecture for Women and Children, Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital.

FINAL PROPOSAL rachel gordon

figure 21. major spaces

figure 16. section a-a

figure 22. level 1

figure 23. level 2

figure 24. section b-b

CHAPTER III >weaving healing architecture & music therapy brianna grimm

weaving healing & music voice >foreword

>introduction

The following paper will explore the relationships between human well-being and architecture through design of the California Center for Torture Survivors, the purpose of which is to support clients through music.

The current global condition is filled with instability. In 2015, there were 65.3 million people who were forcibly displaced. Of that, 21.3 million were refugees. Over half, at 51%, of the refugee population were children. The average rate of people displaced from their homes were 24 persons per minute (UNHCR).

It is imperative to set the foundation that every person has a voice. No matter the circumstance, there is a spirit inside every soul that is resonating and awaiting a time to speak. The following research and design focuses on healing the unique voice of those who have been silenced by physical and psychological trauma. The manifestation of voice is translated from concept to reality through the architectural exploration of the djembe, and its relationship to music therapy. The djembe is a central part of African culture that embodies a spirit of empowerment and connection. It too, has a unique voice that beckons everyone involved to gather together in peace.

In 2016, almost 1% or 1 in 113 people, around the world were internally displaced from their homes (Huber). This unprecedented landmark has sent a wave of tens of thousands of refugees to the United States. The top 10 countries from which people are fleeing all have a high degree of political unrest (Huber). The main countries with refugees are Syria, Afghanistan, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar (Burma), Central African Republic, Iraq, and Eritrea (Huber, Jansen, Schlein, Tisdall, Woodruff). The proposed California Center for Torture Survivors in Albany, CA, is to serve refugees, staff, and community members.

_ refugees

figure 1. voice

They have fled their homes in other countries due to political unrest. Some have been tortured, many have witnessed torture, and few escaped without trauma. Language is a barrier. Cultural customs and beliefs differ and conflict. Age ranges through all generations. They may come alone, with families separated, or with the whole family. They all need resources; food, home, education, asylum, support,

figure 2. the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s refugees

and healing. Some will need therapy, while others will spend time waiting on their loved ones, participating in community activities, and caring for themselves.

_staff The staff will need support to maintain their own healing. They oversee the therapy of refugees, connect them to resources, keep the facility and grounds, help run the market, advocate to the community, all while caring for themselves.

to share, different vantage point, and may need healing themselves. They have no initial reason to be in the center, but are invited in to share in the purpose of healing. The aim of the Center for its users will be to embrace the disempowered and disconnected people of the world, and guide them to a place of internal and external empowerment and connection.

_ community The community members are potentially unaware of the refugee cause; somewhat aware and uneducated; or aware and well researched. They have a different culture

figure 3. user groups

>torture background The world’s unrest and displacement is woven together with torture, many people are left with physical and emotional scars specifically from political torture. The unfortunate reality of torture plays out in many ways; therefore, its definition can vary. Amnesty International defines torture as, “the systematic and deliberate infliction of acute pain in any form by one person to another, or on a third person, in order to accomplish the purpose of the former against the will of the latter” (31).

disorder, but it is hard to distinguish if all of the victim’s symptoms are linked to music torture when other forms of torture have been used as well (Grant).

It is important to note that of all the refugees and displaced people in the world, only a percentage has been tortured. Specifically in the Bay Area, there are 7 million people, of which .9% of the area’s population has been tortured (“Survivors” 69). Torture can manifest itself in many different ways including electric shock, food deprivation, rape, sensory deprivation, and water boarding (UNHCR).

There are other traumatic happenings that are a part of being a refugee that need to be healed even if one has not experienced torture. It is important to note that refugees of all kinds experience loss of family, friends, home, culture, and the familiarity of their former life (Sutton, 120). Also, for any person close to a survivor of torture, vicarious traumatization can possibly occur. Vicarious traumatization involves experiencing similar post traumatic stress disorder effects from listening to other peoples’ stories of trauma without actually being tortured (Herman, 140).

An oddity of music is that is has been used both as torture and as rehabilitation from torture. Music has a powerful influence, but when this power is misused and manipulated it can lead to great harm. The nature of music as torture expresses a relationship, “characterized by complete power of one over the other- an unequal relationship which obviously always exists between the torturer and the victim” (Grant).

The focus of music as torture is most often in the constant exposure to loud sounds. This effects more than just the ears, but also the mind. There are also cases where singing or dancing is forced upon people for prolonged periods of time to the point of physical exhaustion and even humiliation. The forced action of singing or dancing can occur while people have been physical beaten. These actions have been linked to post-traumatic stress

Regardless of the means of torture, victims experience a variety of effects that range from hysteria to sexual dysfunction and enduring personality changes to substance abuse. In addition, over 70% of survivors struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (“Survivors” 16-19).

figure 4. sense of decay

figure 5. music & the brain

>music as therapy Despite the global scale issues or torture and the cultural differences of the world’s people, there are anatomical similarities that exist in everyone. When brought to the human scale, music is able to mediate these vast differences. Music has a powerful yet intangible impact on all people. “Music activates more parts of the brain than any other function that people perform” (“Music and Learning”). Even without the use of all five sense, music can still heal.

Music can engage the nucleus accumbens and amygdala to create emotional reactions, as well as reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. The prefrontal cortex is in charge of behavior, expression, and decision making, in addition to releasing dopamine to help make people feel good. The corpus callosum is engaged in the music making process and it connects the creative right hemisphere with the logical left hemisphere of the brain (“Music and Learning”).

The motor cortex activates movement in response to music often in the form of dancing or playing an instrument. The sensory cortex is responsible for the tactile feedback of the movements made in dancing or creating music. The auditory cortex activates listening to sounds, as well as perceiving and analyzing the tones of the music that is heard (“Music and Learning”). The hippocampus creates and stores music memories, experiences, and context to be called upon later. The visual cortex is responsible for the reading of music and lyrics, as well as looking at one’s dance moves. The cerebellum coordinates the movement of dancing and playing an instrument, and the emotional reaction one has to the process (“Music and Learning”).

Music Therapy is mainly creative and, “creativity is the resistance to oppression... Creating something new is an act of defiance in the face of destruction. Survivors of devastating experiences often talk about finding their voice and their power” (Sutton, 76). Music Therapy has the ability to directly mitigate the impacts of post traumatic stress disorder on a person. The healing process and recovery include, “the empowerment of the survivor and the creation of new connections” (Herman, 133). Finding one’s voice again involves supporting, thinking, listening, creating, and sharing in order to regain control of one’s life.

Some may believe that music only has a psychological impact on people, but study of the physiology of the brain reveals the power of music to also heal physically. The brain stem controls breathing and heart rates, and most importantly reduces the perception of pain (“Music Therapy and Pain”). Music is the universal language, which gives it the unique ability to mediate differences. Music is effective in aiding physical and psychological pain; therefore, music therapy is the best mode of healing. Music Therapy specifically is, “the skillful use of music and musical elements by an accredited music therapist to promote, maintain, and restore mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Music has nonverbal, creative, structural, and emotional qualities. These are used in the therapeutic relationship to facilitate contact, interaction, self-awareness, learning, self-expression, communication, and personal development” (Canadian Association for Music Therapy). 54

figure 6. healing process

figure 7. djembe

>vision

>architectural idea

Everyone’s individual and unique voice will be promoted in the California Center for Torture Survivors through the concept of the djembe drum. Drums are among the oldest instruments known to mankind. They can be found as a source of music and ritual in every culture of the world. Specifically, the djembe is an African drum that received its name from the phrase, “Anke djé, anke bé,” which translates to, “Everyone gather together in peace” (DiLullo).

The architecture will support the concept of the djembe through the idea of a rhythmic vessel. My proposal is to create a rhythmic vessel in which music therapy restores the unique voice of each person while mediating differences, so that everyone can gather together in peace.

An exploration of the djembe in section lead to an understanding of voice. Depending on the thickness of the wood and the depth of the bowl even more varieties of sound are created (Tauber). Sound is created with an exterior input on the skin of the drum, the voice builds inside the bowl of the drum in an intimate place, and is released as an exterior output through the base of the drum.

The notion of compression and release of sound smoothly translates to the idea of creating rhythm. Rhythm is the result of unity and variety. The architecture of the Center has unity in the linear shape of the structure, as well as variety in the circulation of interior spaces, which is comparable to the motion of water in flow forms. The movements of nature are healing rhythms that should be inherently present in the design.

figure 8. rhythm

>theoretical framework

>healing environment design

Healing is wholeness. A solution provided for the body or mind alone is not capable of complete healing. According to Wilbert M. Gesler in Healing Places, taking a multidimensional approach to healing integrates physical and mental components along with spiritual, emotional, and social elements. The codependency of these elements creates wholeness, yet the pieces becomes irrelevant without an inner willingness to heal. Consequently, healing is also an attitude. To support a healing attitude, a purpose must be identifiable. Wholeness is achieved when physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social well-being is paired with a willing attitude to assume a meaningful regimen.

According to Gesler’s definition of the four aspects of a healing environment; built, natural, social, and symbolic; the following are design implications of the respective themes utilized in the California Center for Torture Survivors:

Therefore, to understand healing; physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social health needs must be defined. Physical health is fueled by a balanced diet and exercise, and lacking in disease or fatigue. Mental health is characterized by positive spiritual, emotional, and social state. Spiritual health comes from a source greater than one’s self. Emotional health is the ability to cope with the normal stress and challenges in life. Social health is gained from contributing meaningfully to a community. Thus healing places are characterized by the following four aspects.

_ built aspect The goal of the built aspect is to create a soothing environment in which winding circulation, coordinated with structure and light, create a harmonious and healing rhythm. These strategies address the question; how daylight and nature can have an impact on the healing process? In general, light impacts how visual tasks are performed, the rhythm of the body’s circadian system, one’s mood and perception, as well as critical chemical reactions from direct absorption. It is also important to note that sunlight, in specific, emits a balanced spectrum of colors that is much more natural for the human eye to receive. By allowing sunlight in through the ordering of the structural system allows for the builder users’ bodies to gain the benefits of light while also naturally feeling settled in all space in contrast to electric light (Joesph). Research has been in done hospitals around the world that show reduced pain relief medication, decrease time spent in depressive illness states, as well as high disinfectant qualities when daylight is accessible (Strong). All rooms will have natural light to increase the opportunity to recover from physical and psychological pain.

The Center is designed so that the exterior will appear protected with redwood siding along all ground edges. The siding will rise to four feet so that one can look out, but still feels protected. As the structure folds in on itself the courtyards open up, and the walls become all glass so that the interior is light-filled. The floor plan follows a line of circulation that widens at four nodes. The market along the street, the instrument making room, the music lounge and library, as well as the auditorium are the major healing spaces. The roof plane is lifted by two feet to create a clerestory to allow more light into the celebrated spaces. The ground flooring acts as a guide throughout the entire building. Neutral pigmented concrete flows through the hallways and major spaces. The flooring changes to a light hardwood in the offices and more intimate rooms to give a sense of warmth.

_ natural aspect The goal of the natural environment is to weave together the interior and exterior spaces seamlessly, so that access to nature is undeniable. The design of the Center folds in on itself to create two major outdoor areas. It is necessary to answer the question; can access to nature have a positive impact on human wellbeing? Jane Rhode, found that, “the longer individuals remain inside of buildings, the less likely they are to venture outside. Their world becomes closed in and a fear of the outside represents the fear of the unknown.” That is why it is imperative to take advantage of the moderate and pleasant climate of the Bay Area, and encourage all users to circulate between the interior and exterior of the rhythmic form. Primarily passive outdoor spaces will be created for building users to pass through, interact with, and observe nature because of its harmonious affects (Rohde). In addition to the outdoor spaces will be indoor and indirect natural influences which include a sunroom with plants, art, and natural materials (Goforth). It is ideal to allow building users’ to choose to experience nature either indirectly or directly.

_ social aspect

_ symbolic aspect

The goal of the social environment is to allow for planned and serendipitous gatherings between refugees, staff, and community members that lead to a sharing of voices. In a way, the social experience of the Center relies on the response to the question; how can music and sound contribute to a healing environment? Allowing the management of loud, public spaces to be located and constructed in an effective way to meet the program needs, and as a result not impacting the structure of quieter, private spaces.

Sound is the most important architectural aspect of a building centered on music therapy, but also has a healing effect. The goal of the symbolic environment is to embody the idea of, â&#x20AC;&#x153;everyone gather together in peace,â&#x20AC;? as expressed in the djembe. Music, which is sound does this. The djembe calls all different people together. The sound is a guiding element that either draws people towards community in the loud, public spaces to share or pushes people towards solitude in quiet, private spaces to reflect.

Sound-absorbing materials will be used in hallways, therapy spaces, and the library, and sound-reflecting materials will be used in the auditorium and music making spaces (Blomkvist). In order to best create a healing environment sound needs to be managed so it only fills the spaces that are meant to be loud, and mitigate the sound in private spaces so that it does not distract from healing (Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Callaghan).

>conclusion Every person has a voice. No matter the circumstance, there is a spirit inside every soul that is resonating and awaiting a time to speak. The design proposal for the Center for Torture Survivors focuses on healing the unique voices of those who have been silenced by trauma. The architecture of the center reinforces a healing atmosphere through a balance of light, nature, and sound experience. The only way to create a space where everyone could gather together in peace was by weaving together emotional and technical aspects that allowed the Center to sing.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

chapter III

TEXT -Amnesty International. “Amnesty International Report on Torture.” London: Gerald Duckworth & Co. Ltd., 1973. Blomkvist, V., C.A. Eriksen, T. Theorell, R. Ulrich, G. Rasmanis. “Acoustics and Psychosocial Environment in Intensive Coronary Care.” BMJ Group. 19 Nov. 2004. Web. 2 Feb. 2017. Canadian Association for Music Therapy. “Music Therapy Definition.” Association de Musicothérapie du Canada Annual General Meeting, Vancouver, British Columbia. 6 May 1994. Web. 16 Mar. 2017. DiLullo, David. “Drum Circles.” Global Drum Circles. 2016. Web. 8 Nov. 2016. Gesler, Wilbert M. “Healing Places.” 1941. Print. Goforth, Meggan, Kimberly A. Keenan, Vernon Large, Deborah Trau. “Nature Contacts: Employee Wellness in Healthcare.” Health Environment Research & Design Journal. 2016. Web. 2 Feb. 2017. Grant MA, PhD, M.J. “The Illogical Logic of Music Torture.” Torture Volume 23, 2013. Print. Herman M.D., Judith. “Trauma and Recovery.” 1997. Print. Huber, Chris. Forced to Flee: Top 5 Countries Refugees are Coming From. World Vision. 28 June 2016. Web. 22 Oct. 2016. Jansen, Michael. Syria, Iraq, and Eritrea: Why People are Fleeing. Irish Times. 11 Sept. 2015. Web. 5 Dec. 2016.

Encyclopedia of Philosophy. 24. Apr. 2014. Web. 2 Feb. 2017. Rohde, Jane. “Residential Health Care Facilities 2014 Guidelines Revision Project: Access to Nature.” Residential Health Care Workgroup. Jul. 2012. Web. 2 Feb. 2017. Schlein, Lisa. Thousands Flee Central African Republic to Escape Escalating Violence. VOA News. 8 Jul. 2016. Web. 5 Dec. 2016. Strong, Prof. DTG. “Daylight Benefits in Healthcare Buildings.” The Center for Health Design Knowledge Repository. Web. 2 Feb. 2017. “Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture.” Kansas State University. March 2017. Print. Sutton, Julie P. “Music, Music Therapy and Trauma: International Perspectives.” 2002. Print. Tauber, Allan. “History of the Djembe.” Boston’s Djembe Drumming Community School and Shop. 2016. Web. 18 Oct. 2016. Tisdall, Simon. Tens of Thousands Flee ‘Extreme Violence’ in Congo. The Guardian. 31 May 2012. Web. 5 Dec. 2016. UNHCR. “Global Trends Forced Displacement in 2015.” Web. 2 May 2017. Woodruff, Judy. Why Thousands of Rohingya Refugee have Fled Myanmar. PBS. 15 May 2015. Web. 5 Dec. 2016.

Joesph, Anjali. “The Impact of Light on Outcomes in Healthcare Settings.” Health Environment Research & Design Journal. 2006. Web. 2 Feb. 2017. “Music and Learning.” OnlineCollege.net. 2012. Web. 19 Oct. 2016. “Music Therapy and Pain.” Advanced Management. 24 June 2014. Web. 19 Oct. 2016.

Pain

O’Callaghan, Casey. “Auditory Perception.” Stanford

IMAGERY -figure 1. Grimm, Brianna. “Voice.” Kansas State University. Voice: Healing Architecture as Music Therapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 2. Grimm, Brianna. “The World’s Refugees.” Kansas State University. Voice: Healing Architecture as Music Therapy. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. with reference to Huber, Chris. Forced to Flee: Top 5 Countries Refugees are Coming From. World Vision. 28 June 2016. Web. 22 Oct. 2016. figure 3. Grimm, Brianna. “User Groups.” Kansas State University. Voice: Healing Architecture as Music Therapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 4. Lai, Catherine. “PTSD.” 13 Mar. 2015. Photograph. 3 May 2017. figure 5. Grimm, Brianna. “Music and the Brain.” Kansas State University. Voice: Healing Architecture as Music Therapy. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. with reference to “Music and Learning.” OnlineCollege. net. 2012. Web. 19 Oct. 2016. and “Music Therapy and Pain.” Advanced Pain Management. 24 June 2014. Web. 19 Oct. 2016. figure 6. Grimm, Brianna. “Healing Process.” Kansas State University. Voice: Healing Architecture as Music Therapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 7. Grimm, Brianna. “Djembe.” Kansas State University. Voice: Healing Architecture as Music Therapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Photograph. figure 8. Grimm, Brianna. “Rhythm.” Kansas State University. Voice: Healing Architecture as Music Therapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. *All Icons from “Flat Icon.” Freepik. *All unmarked images & diagrams by Brianna Grimm

FINAL PROPOSAL brianna grimm

CHAPTER IV >promoting evidence based design in healing architecture nicole harris

Introductionglobal refugee crisis >understanding the refugee crisis The global refugee crisis is making headlines everywhere and can no longer be ignored. Political turmoil in many countries have taken a turn for the worst for its citizens. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s headlines we witness monstrosities currently taking place in Syria, but in reality it is taking place all over the world. Majority of the survivors taking refuge in the United States are coming from Central and Eastern Africa and the Middle East. The most common reason for their relocation is political unrest. (Center for Victims of Torture).

Political torture survivors are typically highly educated and targeted by their government or rebel powers as a way of intimidation or other malicious motives. The survivors may escape as refugees but they never truly escape from what has happened to them. Long term and short term effects of both physical and mental nature take place within themselves and resurface along with the traumatic memories long after the torture as seized.

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figure 3.

>where are refugees coming from? Approximately 5,000 to 10,000 refugees are living in Alameda County, California where the proposed site is located. There are currently no facilities present dedicated to the holistic healing of these survivors. The only facility in the United States is located in Minneapolis and acts as an appropriate precedent study for what services a center such as this might entail. The Center for Victims of Torture is retrofitted into a Victorian home which allows it to blend in with the surrounding context and not to draw too much attention to itself or its clients, as hate crimes are a growing issue in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world. figure 3. refugees located in the bay area

Background & researchunderstanding the users >defining political torture & its survivors Most political torture survivors are well educated and had previously held leadership roles in their communities. They are targeted due to their leadership roles and their opposition to the regime in political unrest situations.

figure 4. visual representation of the refugee struggle

Torture is defined as “A deliberate and systematic dismantling of a person’s identity and humanity through physical or psychological pain and suffering. Tortures purpose is to destroy a sense of community, eliminate leaders, create a climate of fear and produce a culture of apathy.” (Center for Victims of Torture). Torture works to strip a person’s sense of self and self-worth which ends up affecting their day-to-day life for the rest of their lives. Human interaction with friends, family, community members, and perfect strangers become increasingly strained and feelings of distrust build up. 78

In many cases, physical scars of torture or trauma is not apparent and therefore subject to public scrutiny. Survivors are less inclined to share their experiences with anyone, let alone professionals. There is a strong fear of not being believed or possibly making situations uncomfortable with others if brought up. (Healing in Survivors of Torture, Yawar, Athar). It is difficult to imagine how one could torture another and the reasoning behind this can be linked to the idea of how one could value themselves above another. “People torture in the name of ideals that, in their culture, would be held to the unassailable - democracy, freedom, Islam. What counts is the label, not the reality of these doctrines.” They claim to do it out of necessity. (The Reasoning for Torture, Yawar, Athar). Inflictors can often see the victim as “subhuman.” They are no longer human and this allows the inflicter to distance themselves emotionally from the victim.

figure 5. ‘subhuman’ ideology

When it comes the healing of a political torture survivor, one must understand the three realms that their mental states are encompassed in, as defined by the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. They start as a personal world (mind and body), the social world, and the world of meaning. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Survivors of torture are in exile. They are in exile from themselves: the once sharp mind may have been dulled by fear and exhaustion, to say nothing of the brain damage caused by repeated beatings. The person who once bestrode his world may be physically weak, disabled, in constant pain. Every twinge and ache may bring back memories of torture - a reminder that the torturers are still winning.â&#x20AC;? (Healing in Survivors of Torture, yawar, Athar). In the room in which counseling takes place, they should be guaranteed companionship and safety. The survivor must first be able to relax and open up before the medical and psychological trauma history is brought up due to significant trust issues and lack of clear thinking.

figure 7. ptsd

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and depression are two of the most common symptoms of political torture survivors. Those who suffer from PTSD often do not find reprieve from their daily symptoms with prescribed medication. New research studies supports the treatment of PTSD symptoms from using water in a therapeutic manner. Hydrotherapy helps combat chronic pain, promote blood circulation, induce meditation and relaxation, and prevent or interrupt bouts of dissociation. (Hydrotherapy and PTSD). Water offers patients a trusting environment, one that allows the user to have the most control of their environment. They can strike out at the water and be gratefully received in turn.

figure 6. long term physical effects of ptsd

theoretical framework as defined by Wilbert Gesler >healing through architecture

>natural environment

A starting point for the research of healing and wellness in architecture, William Gesler sets up a framework for architects to refer to. He begins by stating that architecture has just as much of an impact on the wellbeing of a patient as physical medication. The facility must provide an environment that encourages families to visit, nurses to collaborate, and patients to research and become educated on their own well-being. Gesler breaks down his ideas into four ideologies: the natural environment, built environment, symbolic environment, and social environment.

The design of the natural environment in which healing takes place should feel remote and separate from the urban environment. Designing with the integration of nature allows for the occupants to heal in a calm and fresh environment. In the proposed Center for Healing, users are transported from their reality of the urban environment to the facility and is physically done so as they travel over a bridge over the reflection pool. This offers a sense of remoteness, privacy, and security. Users can then begin to experience the natural environment from the safety of the facility.

figure 8. access to nature

>built environment The design of the built environment begins with the understanding of moral treatment which states that one should treat the patient as a human as well as treating their mental, physical, and psychological disability. Healthy and hygienic features promote the wellbeing of users just as much as providing a comfortable space in which users can interact with users freely and not feel confined. The design implications for this subject suggest occupancy control, access to fresh air, and appropriate daylighting. Therme Vals is a prime example of occupancy control; Peter Zumthor limits the users allowed in the Bath house by using a single controlled public entrance point. Through a series of mass and voids, he allows the user choice and a subtle delineation between private and social pools. Access to the natural environment is imperative to the success of the facility.

The proposed facility will integrate natural ventilation strategies such as operable window panels for user control and night flushing. The main entrance and event space is enveloped by a nana wall system that will be open during open hours. This allows users to experience the outdoors in a controlled setting and ventilation for the interior spaces. The envelope of the building is primarily a curtain wall system and a wood privacy screen implemented to control heat gain. This will allow light to dance on the interior spaces simulating the movement of water. The private session pools are located directly under the reflection pool. Light-wells penetrate through the earth from the reflection pool to provide natural mood lighting over the pools. Color could potentially be added to the light wells to create certain atmospheres in the space, similar to Zumthorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more intimate baths.

figure 9. therme vals

figure 10. mckay lyons

>symbolic environment The design of the symbolic environment must include physical objects that have the ability to evoke intense feelings in survivors of political torture. Their attitude and behavior could change depending on their surroundings. It is integral to understand where these users come from and how can we respect a variety of cultures in one facility. It is a design goal to create meaning beyond to surface of the architecture and create relatable artwork that allows the users to feel more comfortable and at ease. This starts before the user even enters to facility. A garden of trees surrounds the building creating an intimate environment and all is reflected upon the reflection pool. Users are meant to feel as a ship would coming into harbor. Knowing that they will be safe and protected as soon as they cross that bridge.

figure 11. portland lighthouse

>social environment The design of the social environment has much to do with the organization of spaces. The healing facility should be organized in a way which survivors can easily distinguish zones of public space to private space and feel comfortable in either. The architecture alone should define the occupancy of a space. This can be done with the delineation between small and large corridors. In these corridors, nooks are created to encourage serendipitous social interactions. It is human nature to feel more comfortable with our backs up against something and know our exits. Minimizing the amount of doors and creating a spaces in which most circulation as well as spontaneous social gathering occurs rather than literal single loaded or double loaded corridors will help to minimize the feeling of being trapped and encourage the idea of choice. Trust is imperative between the therapist and survivor and encourages

the success of the building. Less barriers between staff and patient will help to encourage a conversation rather than a discussion. Spaces in which formal counseling/therapy will take place should be informal in nature. In the proposed facility, these rooms are oriented to the natural environment outside of the facility and furniture is set up casually and also oriented towards the natural views. Enough space is available so that a family member could be added to the conversation.

figure 12. therme vals outdoor pools

architectural proposition

>architectural idea

>site analysis

Using methods of hydrotherapy in collaboration with cognitive therapy methods, water will serve as the guiding element throughout the site offering reflection and sustenance. The implementation of water in architecture is proven to increase the well-being of the occupants. The architectural idea for the proposed center is a beacon on the water. Placed adjacent to a reflecting pool, the facility reflects its glow onto the water and calls users into the safety of the shelter. It has a similar effect to that of a lighthouse. The partiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s symbolism represents safety and hope.

The site is located in Alameda County of the East Bay area of San Francisco, California. It is a characterized as a Mediterranean climate with mild Winters and humid Summers. Its major topographic views include the San Pablo Ridge to the East, Mount Tamalpais to the West, and Albany Hill directly to the North.

figure 13. beacon on the water parti

>vision statement Using methods of hydrotherapy in collaboration with cognitive therapy methods, water will serve as the guiding element throughout the site offering reflection and sustenance.

The neighboring context is primarily residential and small commercial. The second floor of the proposed facility has potential to view these topographical views through the curtain wall. The land has historically belonged to Native American Tribes and has become a place of political and cultural unrest. Owned by the University of Berkeley, agricultural division, the site is fenced off for agricultural study. The South-Eastern side of the site is occupied by the Gill Tract Community Farm. The 9 acre land is large enough to respect the Native American culture represented by the sacred Ohlone circle in the South-Eastern end of the site and the community farm. The build-able site will occupy the Western edge of the site and work collaboratively with one another. The refugees could potentially work on the farm and get to know the community and in turn, community can start to learn more about the refugees and their culture. Community integration and interaction are integral to the success of the refugeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new life in the States.

healing through hydrotherapy

>hydrotherapy & PTSD

Aquatic therapy is a proven method for those specifically suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Hydrotherapy is the use of water (solid, liquid, or gas) in a therapeutic manner. Hydrotherapy is an ancient, natural remedy that was used to cure health issues by immersing the body in a certain temperature of water dependent on the issue of the user. It has historically been a method of physical healing of the body but only recently has it become a realistic practice for healing of the mind. Presently, there are numerous studies proving the effectiveness that hydrotherapy offers to those suffering from PTSD. when survivors are free of their torturous situations, they begin to acknowledge the short term and long term effects of their torture. Every twinge or ache of physical pain

might bring back horrifying memories of their torture and cause psychological pain. Hydrotherapy helps to create a safe environment for survivors to first feel safe and welcomed. (Aquatic Bodywork). A physical therapist trained in the art of Hydrotherapy acknowledges the safe and trusting element that the water offers. By introducing certain methods of hydrotherapy in conjunction with certain water temperatures, patrons can begin to heal holistically in a nurturing and trusting environment.

figure 15. soldiers with ptsd

figure 16. refugees with ptsd

The types of aquatic therapy carefully selected for the program of the Proposed Center for Healing include watsu therapy, healing dance therapy, thalassotherapy, and sensory reduction therapy.

>watsu therapy Watsu therapy gently invites traumatic memory into awareness, calms the nervous system, reduces hyper-arousal, and reprograms the nervous, emotional, and energetic systems towards health. When a watsu therapist is holding the survivor in the water and memories of trauma come to the surface, the energy of the trauma is let go through the nurturing and unconditional care coming from the professional. The water creates an environment drastically different from the traumatizing event. Through movement, expression, and transformation, the trauma becomes a distant memory which begins to resurface fewer and fewer. (Aquatic BodyWork). figure 17.watsu therapy

>healing dance therapy Healing dance therapy is another form of aquatic therapy and reaps the same benefits as watsu therapy. Healing dance allows for a larger variety of activities to take place dependent on the needs of the survivor. These activities include dance movements, massage, craniosacral therapy, soma-to-emotional release, and total immersion of the patient underwater. The practitioner continues to gently hold the survivor and move through the warm temperature of water. The movement through water engages the parasympathetic nervous system for an overall calming of the activated sympathetic nervous system. (Aquatic Bodywork). figure 18. healing dance therapy

>thalassotherapy Thalassotherapy is the use of seawater for health treatments. This therapy will take place in a jetted shower. This therapy does not require a practitioner unless safety concerns for the survivor call upon it. Users will immediately begin to feel relaxed and calm. The salty water helps the survivor to breathe more clearly and calm down in times of aggression. (Brittney Tourism, Wellness).

>sensory reduction therapy figure 19. thalassotherapy

figure 20. sensory reduction therapy

Sensory Reduction Therapy are becoming increasingly popular around the country. Float Spas are used for a variety of mental and physical issues. Formally called, Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST), sensory reduction slows down and quiets the areas around the cortex, allowing the user to slip into a deep meditative state that provides peace, calm, perspective, and clarity. The float tank includes hundreds upon hundreds of pounds of Epsom salt which allows the body to float effortlessly and dramatically lowers and regulates cortisol levels, promoting the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production of serotonin, ultimately reducing muscle and joint inflammation and subduing pain. Users experience a variety of stimulation from this therapy, including: vivid memories, beautiful colors, stillness of the mind, stress and anxiety reduction, mood enhancement, pain reduction, and overall better sleep quality (Float Kansas).

design implications & implementations >separation of realms The beacon on the water ideology worked for this particular user group because it allowed for seclusion and privacy which is what refugees suffering from PTSD desire. As users arrive to the site, they leave the public realm and walk across the reflection pool to the facility. The reflection pool offers a transition period for those who might suffer from anxiety or might want to gather courage to treat their symptoms. The facility further serves as a safe heaven. Once in the facility, the user has the choice to remain in the public realm or to move to a more secluded, private area. The build-able area is closed distanced from the community farm which is located on the Eastern side of the site. This is done so using natural elements such as the natural swimming pool and a line of newly developed trees. The new tree line so dense as to completely shut off the two programs, just enough to ensure privacy for the refugees. The Western edge of the site is more defined by hard-scape and becomes natural . This is recognized in by the use of introduced bodies of water. The reflection pool is more hard-scaped and meant for visual contact, whereas the biologically-filtered pool is organically shaped and meant for both visual and physical contact.

figure 21. site zoning strategy

figure 22. developing strategy

>light-wells Bathhouses are have been evident in most cultures for centuries. Beginning as public bath houses they served for meeting both hygienic and social needs of the citizens. The proposed center seeks to fulfill a more physical and psychological need as well as those listed before.

figure 23. model photograph of light-well

Turkish bath houses became a significant case study because of their use of natural light. Hammams are not always underground but have a heavy sense of enclosure. Most of their light source comes from above, and allow an atmosphere of spirituality. The goal of creating an underground space where most of the hydrotherapy spaces will be located, was to allow a sense of privacy, occupancy control and to capture natural light from above in various types of light wells. There are a total of 8 bathing suites; 6 with flexible swimming pools, and 2 with float tanks. Each suite has its very own size and shape light-well. The idea behind that being, a user would Bathing Suite A with a round light-well directly above the pool, and the next week they might use Suite C which has a linear light-well flanking 3 of the walls. This creates a sense of uniqueness and peaks curiosity.

figure 24. hammam (bathhouse) in Istanbul, Turkey

>conclusion As the refugee crisis continues to increase, the need for facilities of refuge will increase as well. It is our task as the architects to contribute to this growing crisis in the one way we know how; design. By creating a typology specific for political torture victims, architects can begin to ease the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s view of what suffering refugees endure and how important it is to create a healing environment that suits them. Using methods of hydrotherapy in conjunction with formal cognitive therapy methods, survivors can begin to overcome and deal with their day-to-day struggles of their mental, physical, and psychological symptoms. Wilbert Gesler sets the stage for what a healing environment entails architecture can be more directed towards the comfort of the user and contribute to the healthy progression of the way they live their lives. The proposed center uses the four categories that contribute to an environment of healing and wellness as a base line for its design. Other features such as light-wells and permeability materiality are an additional factor considered to have healing properies. Architecture must be treated as an instrument of healing, with users as the number one priority.

bibliography

chapter IV

TEXT -“Healing Complex Trauma & PTSD.” Healing Complex Trauma & PTSD. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <http:// www.healingfromcomplextraumaandptsd.com/ hydrotherapy-for-pain> “The Hydrotherapy Guru.” The Hydrotherapy Guru. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <http://tyanermilem. wixsite.com/thehydrotherapyguru/for-veterans> Western Libraries - Western University.N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <https://www.lib.uwo.ca/archives/ virtualexhibits/londonasylum/hydrotherapy.html> Yawar, Athar. “Healing in Survivors of Torture.” Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. The Royal Society of Medicine, Aug. 2004. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <https://www. ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/pmc/articles/PMC1079554/> Systems, EZ. “What Is Thalassotherapy?” http://wellness.brittanytourism.com N.p.,n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2016.v<http://wellness.brittanytourism.com/ thalassotherapy/what-is-thalassotherap>

“Göteborg Bathing Culture / Raumlabor.”ArchDaily. N.p., 24 Oct. 2015. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <http://www. archdaily.com/775677/goteborg-bathing-cultureraumlabor> “The Center for Victims of Torture.” The Center for Victims of Torture. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <http://www.cvt.org/> “Architecture for the Senses.” International VELUX Award. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2017. <http://iva.velux. com/competitions/international-velux-award/ posts/architecture-for-the-senses>

IMAGERY -figure 1. N.p., n.d. Web. com/2015/10/migrants4.jpg>.

<http://media.salon.

“Float Kansas - FAQ.” Float Kansas.N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <https://www.floatkansas.com/faq.html>

figure 2. Harris, Nicole. Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital

XxIrisxXxRaexX. “Hydrotherapy and PTSD.” Hydrotherapy and PTSD. N.p., 01 Jan.1970. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <http://gsjfc922.blogspot.com/2014/12/ hydrotherapy-and-ptsd.html>

figure 3. “Forced to Flee: Top 5 Countries Refugees Are Coming from.” World Vision. N.p., 18 Apr. 2017. Web. 04 May 2017. <https://www.worldvision.org/refugeesnews-stories/forced-flee-top-5-countries-refugees>.

Http://www.facebook.com/serenewellness? ref=hl. “8 Ways to Cleanse Your Mind, Body & Soul with Water.” Mindbodygreen. N.p., 01 Aug. 2012. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-5659/8-WaystoCleanse-Your-Mind-Body-Soul-with-Water.html>

figure 4.N.p., n.d. Web. <https://shadowproof.com/wpcontent/uploads/2016/05/8371545663_69a2472c31_k. jpg>.

N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <http://surface.syr.edu/cgi/ viewcontent.cgi?article=1066&context=architecture_ these> “Taking the Waters || Massage Therapy Articles.” Massage Therapy: Everybody Deserves a Massage. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <http://www. massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_ id/323/Taking-the-Waters> N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2016. <http:// scholarworks.umass.edu/cgi/viewcontent.

cgi?article=2225&context=theses>

figure 5. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://aspergerhuman.files. wordpress.com/2016/11/buckmanpower.png>. figure 6.N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.thesilverink. com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ d43a276e6dbe0a7f5529a4e31d1e4b23.jpg>. figure 7. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://s3.amazonaws.com/ libapps/accounts/57164/images/post-traumaticstress-disorderbrain.jpg>. figure 8. Newcomb, Alyssa. “The Number of Trees on Earth May Surprise You.” ABC News. ABC News Network, n.d. Web. 04 May 2017. <http://abcnews.

go.com/Technology/number-trees-earth-surprise/ story?id=33512507>. figure 9. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://s-media-cache-ak0. pinimg.com/ figure 10. MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects Limited. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 May 2017. <http://www. mlsarchitects.ca/>. figure 11. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://portlandheadlight. com/wp-content/uploads/banner-portland-headlight-lighthouse-pano.jpg>. figure 12. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://upload. wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/ b7/Therme_Vals_outdoor_pool%2C_Vals%2C_ Graub%C3%BCnden%2C_Switzerland_-_20090809. jpg/1280px-Therme_Vals_outdoor_ p o o l % 2 C _ Va l s % 2 C _ G r a u b % C 3 % B C n d e n % 2 C _ Switzerland_-_20090809.jpg>.

figure 19. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://traveltherapytours. com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/PortugalThalassotherapy.jpg>. figure 20. Site Zoning Strategy. Harris, Nicole. Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital figure 21. Developing Strategy. Harris, Nicole. Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital figure 22. Model Image. Harris, Nicole. Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital figure 23. Medya, Ees. “The Guide of The Best Istanbul Hammams Historical Turkish Baths.” Turkish Hammams. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 May 2017. <http://www. turkishhammams.com/Best_Istanbul_Hammams. html>. *All unmarked diagrams and images are the property of Nicole Harris

figure 13. Beacon on the Water Parti. Harris, Nicole. Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital figure 14. “20 Incredible Photos of Lighthouses Illuminating the Night.” Scribol.com. N.p., 18 Mar. 2014. Web. 04 May 2017. <http://scribol.com/art-anddesign/architecture-art-and-design/20-incrediblephotos-of-lighthouses-illuminating-the-night/>. figure 15. “Understanding The Nature of PTSD.” Odyssey. N.p., 14 Sept. 2016. Web. 04 May 2017. <https://www.theodysseyonline.com/what-is-ptsd>. figure 16. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://tmhome.com/wpcontent/uploads/2015/07/ptsd-africa_ft.jpg>. figure 17. “Celestial Seahorse.” Celestial Seahorse Home Comments. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 May 2017. <http:// www.celestialseahorse.com/>. figure 18. “Water Healing Hydrotherapy Wellbeing Therapist Dolphin Dance Underwater Massage ~ Video #032084885.” Pond5. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 May 2017. <https://www.pond5.com/stock-footage/032084885/ water-healing-hydrotherapy-wellbeing-therapistdolphin-dance.html>.

Final proposal nicole harris Political refugees are fleeing from mostly central and east African countries as well as middle eastern countries. They flee from human rights abuses and various degrees of political unrest. Refugees are often split up from their families and communities and struggle to reconnect with them out of fear. Interacting with the community is essential to healing and establishing the home within that community is key.

These survivors are usually highly educated and targeted by their government or rebel powers as a way of intimidation or other malicious motives. Survivors may escape as refugees but they never truly escape from what has happened to them. Long term and short term effects of both physical and mental nature take place within themselves and resurface along with the traumatic memories long after the torture as seized.

>types of hydrotherapy

watsu

sensory reduction

healing dance

thalassotherapy

“Using methods of hydrotherapy in collaboration with cognitive therapy methods, water will serve as the guiding element throughout the site offering reflection & sustenance”

administration

~ 5,600 nsf

excercise

garden

electrical conference: ~ 300 sqft total: ~ 300 sqft

director of operation’s: ~ 300 sqft assistant’s office: ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 500 sqft

director of programs: ~ 300 sqft assistant’s office: ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 500 sqqft

financial cordinator: ~ 300 sqft total: ~ 300 sqft

work room: ~ 150 sqft total: ~ 150 sqft

nurse practitioner: ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 200 sqft

biologically filtered pool collaboration room: ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 200 sqft

open office: (2) @ ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 400 sqft

physical therapist: (4) @ ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 800 sqft

counselor’s office: (4) @ ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 1000 sqft

break room: ~ 250 sqft total: ~ 250 sqft

laundry

data/wifi

lockers

staff restrooms (2) @ ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 400 sqft

dining

central services

water filtration

yoga

plumbing

maintenence

~ 3,650 nsf

biologically filtered pool

lockers

common space

lockers reception: ~ 250 sqft total: ~ 250 sqft

foyer: ~ 250 sqft total: ~ 250 sqft

group therapy: (2) @ ~ 250 sqft meditation: (2) @ ~ 150 sqft total: ~ 300 sqft total: ~ 500 sqft

single restrooms (3) @ ~ 100 sqft total: ~ 300 sqft

rec. pool

multi-purpose: ~ 600 sqft total: ~ 600 sqft

living room: ~ 350 sqft total: ~ 350 sqft

kitchen: ~ 300 sqft total: ~ 300 sqft

resource center: ~ 300 sqft total: ~ 300 sqft

saltwater pool

sensory tank

~ 2,450 nsf lockers sensory tank: (4) @ ~ 150 sqft total: ~ 600 sqft

kitchen

formal session pools: (4) @ ~ 150 sqft total: ~ 600 sqft

outdoor

multi-purpose

~ 3,850 nsf

group therapy

resource center records garden: ~ 1200 sqft total: ~ 1200 sqft

bio-filtered pool: ~ 1200 sqft total: ~ 1200 sqft

yoga area: ~ 300 sqft total: ~ 300 sqft

excercise space: ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 200 sqft

restrooms: (2) @ ~ 200 sqft family restroom: ~ 100 sqft total: ~ 500 sqft

~ 2,200 nsf

electrical: ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 200 sqft

plumbing: ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 200 sqft

laundry: ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 200 sqft

lockers: (2) @ ~ 250 sqft total: ~ 500 sqft

data/wifi ~ 150 sqft total: ~ 150 sqft

janitor: ~ 150 sqft total: ~ 150 sqft

medical records: ~ 150 sqft total: ~ 150 sqft

interior spaces circulation

mechanical: ~ 150 sqft total: ~ 150 sqft

counseling

collab. room

conference

hydrotherapy adjacencies

meditation

restrooms

living room

staff bath

director’s office

nurse

maintenence: ~ 200 sqft total: ~ 200 sqft

interior gross

physical therapy

outdoor dining: ~ 250 sqft total: ~ 250 sqft

support

water filtration: ~ 300 sqft total: ~ 300 sqft

sensory tank

therapy pool

restrooms: (2) @ ~ 200 sqft family restroom: ~ 100 sqft total: ~ 300 sqft

hydrotherapy

recreational pool: ~ 350 sqft saltwater pool: ~ 350 sqft

therapy pool

physical therapy

~ 13,900 25% @ ~ 3,475

foyer reception

~ 17,375

exterior spaces

~ 3,850

total

~ 21,225 nsf

program adjacencies

formal users

administration

informal users

staff

>user types Users are split into four distinct categories: formal clients, informal clients, administration staff, and service staff. User interactions vary and the facility must be designed to make sure the desired interactions run smoothly and undesirable interactions do not impede on one another.

zoning strategy

transit strategy

privacy strategy

site plan

site section

process #1 isolate the built environment

ground floor plan

transverse section

process #2 differentiate between bodies of water

process #3 lower program below grade for privacy

process #4 create a see-through public environment

counseling

reception

lower floor plan

upper floor plan

longitudinal section

parti private vs. public egress

entry courtyard

east elevation

100

biologically-filtered pool section

biologically-filtered pool

watsu therapy

sensory reduction therapy

north elevation

101

healing spaces according to Wilbert Gesler are defined by four environments

natural

built

common space

resource center

south elevation

102

symbolic

social

lightwell

structural axonometric

section perspective

103

CHAPTER V >promoting craft through healing architecture mathew heatherly

creation promoting craft through healing architecture >introduction As more and more countries find themselves in a state of civil and political unrest, citizens are fleeing their present locations in search of safer, healthier, more desirable places of residence. Currently South Sudan’s instability, for example, has required humanitarian aid agencies to respond at an overwhelming rate, so much so that the relief effort has become known as the world’s worst humanitarian disaster (Aweil). Twenty million people in Yemen, South Sudan, Somalia and northeast Nigeria are currently experiencing “devastating levels of food insecurity” (Pilling). With overwhelming hardships the refugees are searching for shelters and safe places to continue their lives. These safe places often take the form of rehabilitation clinics, mental and physical therapy institutions or unstable refugee camps. The existing institutionalized clinically based system lacks, evidence-based design, biophilia and programs specifically for torture victims. This presents the need for a Center for the Survivors of Torture. The research thus far has brought to light the need of a center specific to Survivors of Torture, placing concentrated efforts within the San Francisco Bay area. Approximately one third of refugees within California reside in the Bay Area. This concentration along with existing external treatment opportunities within the community provide an ideal location for a Center for the Survivors of Torture.

108

This project will develop a design language providing healing environments for refugees seeking shelter to rebuild their lives. By establishing design requirements, qualities, and characteristics that create an environment of security and holistic healing. The Center for the Survivors of Torture provides a healing environment to address its clients’ psychological and physical health needs through creative release within making studios. The Center for Victims of Torture claims that 40-50% of torture survivors experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or severe depression (U.S. Home to Far More”). The symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder include but are not limited to nightmares, intrusive thoughts / memories, and memory loss of specific aspects of the event. In order for PostTraumatic Stress Disorder to take effect the original event must be “life-threatening for the client and produce a sense of helplessness or horror (Hauksson). Given the high percentage of torture survivors suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder the major focus of this design proposition will focus around treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder suffering torture survivors. Though there are many types of treatment for refugees suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other illnesses, the focus of the Center for the Survivors of Torture is occupational therapy, specifically recreational therapy through traditional crafts.

>torture & its effects

figure 1. symptoms of ptsd

Both physical harm and mental instability can be severe and cause long term disabilities, including but not limited to; hysteria, attempts to self-harm, lack of verbal communication, post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual dysfunction, phantom limb syndrome, substance abuse, depression and psychosis. (Amnesty International). There is some overlap of the timing, severity, and longevity of the symptoms, their progression and order. The treatment of a torture survivor therefore should be a holistic experience and maintain flexibility throughout the process. Treatment plans must not be set in stone. What works for one individual may not work for another and the progression of healing is different for all survivors. “The long-term effects range from prolonged headaches, chronic pain, respiratory problems and a host of other symptoms. Living with constant fear, debilitating depression, panic attacks prevents survivors from caring for themselves, their families, and their communities” (CVT). As defined by the Association for the Prevention of Torture, torture can be summarized as follows:

figure 2. symptoms of ptsd

-- The intentional infliction of severe mental or physical suffering -- The torture is conducted by a public official, who is directly or indirectly involved -- There is an end ‘goal’ for those conducting the torture (APT). 109

-5

00 1 5,

00 0

1, <

00 0

5 >Sudan _641,000 refugees _conflict and instability

10 10, 0 ,0 01 00 > 50 50 .0 ,0 00 00

,0 00

n io ca t ig

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figure 4.

figure 3. 1 >Syria _4.8 million refugees _fleeing civil war

2 >Afghanistan _2.6 million refugees _increased violence

>Albany _california

4 >South Sudan _727,000 refugees _violence and food insecurity

3 >Somalia _980,000 refugees _insecurity

figure 3. five largest countries of origin

>Albany _california

figure 4. total refugee arrivals in california by country of origin between 1982 and 2015

110

pe d ra ct ne w ly de > re ve m lo ai pe ni d ng un de ve lo

ll t

gi >

figure 6.

>site The proposed site for the Center for the Survivors of Torture is currently owned by the University of California, Berkeley. The site is part of the Gill Tract and is being used by the community as a local sustainable garden (ADS). This site has become a center of attention among the neighborhood and development of housing and commercial uses has been protested immensely. The Center for the Survivors of Torture consequently will be a much more human scale development, work with the existing community garden and grade school to the west.

Historically the tract has had a horticultural focus with Mr. Edward Gill purchasing the plot of land and running a large nursery on the site until 1909. Followed by his son who ran the nursery until 1928 when it was sold to University of California Berkeley. Later the land was partially developed by the Navy to house shipyard workers and personnel housing during World War II. The housing development was returned to the University to be used for student housing after the decline in Navy personal. The development was rebuilt in the early 2000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. The United States Department of Agriculture resides on the north-eastern most corner of the site conducting research with U.C. Berkeley. Currently only 9.6 acres remain undeveloped as the last piece of class one soil in the east Bay Area. The gill tract expands south into Santa Clara County encompassing 104 acres. More recently a group of protesters started an organization called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Occupy the Farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to prevent the remaining plot of land from being developed.

>Albany _california

figure 5. albany location

figure 6. gill tract location within albany

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> architectural goals & proposition The California Center for Torture Survivors should be welcoming, and accommodate all walks of life. Researching case studies lead to inspiration from the four environments shown to the left. This design process began with expressing craft and atmosphere through the maker spaces. Timber frame construction techniques expose joints and can show the craft of construction through these unions. The Gooseberry Falls Visitor Center provided an open space with exposed structure, and balanced lighting. Providing a place of community is key to refugees finding balance in the community. The form of the Organic Farm provides a simple from of interlocking spaces which can easily be accessed through a central corridor.

figure 7. organic farm

figure 8. gooseberry falls visitor center

To incorporate nature within the built environment interior spaces should contain organic materials. A great example of natural materials within an interior space is the Kickstarter Headquarters. The space contains circulation, office space with views of interior vegetation, and also sightliness to the atrium below. The approach to the center along with the exterior space near the building should also be addressed. Peaceful space with accessible seating and open views allows visitors to spend time outdoors in a healing space. The Lodge at Woodloch incorporates covered walkways, seating and vegetation along with open sightliness to create a safe space relaxing environment.

figure 9. kickstarter headquarters

figure 10. the lodge at woodloch

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>theoretical framework Environments are made up of natural, built, social, and symbolic parts. According to Gesler all environments should be designed and implement these for aspect of the environment. The Natural Environment should provide spaces of solidarity, peacefulness, and relaxation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; allowing guest to get away and heal. Using secondary courtyards and the community garden, the natural environment can provide sanctuary for the user. The Built Environment should be an extension of nature. With views to the exterior, adequate lighting, and fresh air. The courtyard space where individuals can move a table or desk outside and work provides a direct connection between nature and the user (Gesler).

figure 11. gesler

Social engagements are crucial for healing environments. Talking about onesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; concerns and experiences helps process the finer details. This allows users to grow through their past and strengthen themselves. The studio spaces provide great opportunity for social interaction. Just as we have experienced through architecture studio, bonds are formed and we talk about everything thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on. Symbolic incorporations such as labyrinths, water, and animals provide healing though their use. These elements will be utilized throughout the site to create a walking path(s) around the center and existing community garden (Gesler).

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>natural environment Using secondary courtyards and the community garden, the natural environment can provide sanctuary for the user.

figure 12. natural environment

>built environment The courtyard space where individuals can move a table or desk outside and work provides a direct connection between nature and the user. figure 13. built environment

>social environment The studio spaces provide great opportunity for social interaction to form bonds through conversation and personal interaction.

figure 14. social environment

>symbolic environment These elements will be utilized throughout the site to create a walking path(s) around the center and existing community garden. figure 15. symbolic environment

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>recreational therapy Studies have shown that recreational therapy can restore, remedy, and rehabilitate a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s independence (FAQ). This independence is needed to be able to carry out daily activities of the persons life, from social engagements and pursuing a ob to starting a family and raising children in a new environment, Recreational therapist are trained in interdisciplinary treatments and work in teams to design a treatment plan to address both physical and psychosocial needs of the client. Traditional recreational therapist are professionals focused on outcome-based services. Outcome-based services have a direct correlation to real life situations (Health Care Careers Directory). Recreational therapy as craft presents many outcome-based services that can be transposed into the daily life of the client beyond the cognitive therapies of craft. Examples would be a client who has suffered both mental and physical harm and as a result struggles to use their arms in a traditional fashion. Through using tools and materials the client can relearn and adapt to new functions of the body to complete otherwise simple daily task. This process is about embracing the disability vs. ignoring it and subsequently avoid being depressed with oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current physical and mental state of mind.

figure 16. blacksmith

figure 17. leather work

figure 18. weaving

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>research questions

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_ Does crafting objects provide healing of the mind and body?

_ Does a connection to nature have positive effects on recreational therapy?

The ‘Indian Journal of Occupational Therapy’ promotes the growing needs of scientific disciplines, treatment, education, and practice settings (Change) According to the IJOT humans have a natural need for ‘craft’ or making with/ using your hands. They have found that through self-development one responsibility, and growth of personal balance through selfanalysis. A study at Western Michigan University found that setting of group creativity are also environments that promote bonding and social growth. “A group of veterans working with leather, wood, and painting discovered a sense of pride and purpose, through developing relationships and camaraderie within the crafting space (Reclaiming) These studies have shown that working with ones hands has positive impacts on mental and physical health.

The Center for the Survivors of Torture will not only be healing through craft but, also incorporate “Natures – Guided Therapy” which combines the disciplines of: environmental psychology, social geography, anthropology, ethology, psychobiology, sociobiology, ecology, and clinical psychology (Burns). This type of therapeutic environment can be compared to similar to tourist seeking new views, architecture should include unspoiled, natural landscapes to captivate users. Therapist have asked patients to ‘picture themselves’ in relaxing environments, now architects should be creating these (Burns). Similarly nature can be a guide for both design, and the client’s path to recovery. Design following natural progression tends to be less materialistic and more embracing (Nebbe) The natural desire of humans to be in exterior environments has been compromised by the artificial built environments. In response society has created ‘grassroots programs’ to get people back in touch with nature (Nebbe).

figure 19. basket weaving

figure 20. outdoor wood working

>designing for human well-being Humans have a natural need for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;craftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, in response the Center for the Survivors of Torture will contain four maker spaces. Three of which will focus on traditional crafts such as wood working, metal working, and textiles. The remaining maker space will contain modern tools and serve as support to the traditional Berkeley craft spaces. As the client utilizes the center they will have the opportunity to grow as an individual and become part of a greater community. Through cognitive behavioral therapy, recreational therapy and involvement in nature the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skills and mindsets can develop calming habits, mental stability, and redevelop lost motor functions. In the past therapist have asked patients to picture themselves in a relaxing environment, now we are creating the physical space. As the built environment revolves around the client it should also be part of the natural environment. Biophilia incorporates nature into architecture, this practice blends enclosure with open landscapes and ideally will create a seamless transition from the built to natural

figure 21. metal smithing

environment. With the advancement in technology we can now create interior environments that can house vegetation. The artificial natural environment is not enough for the humans need to be in natural environments. As a result our door space should be present for the clients use, for both therapy and recreation. The Center for the Survivors of Torture itself must be a crafted jewel within the landscape. The atmosphere of the center should embrace craft, individuality, and peacefulness. Using organic materials such as wood and stone alongside products that develop character as they age such as copper and steel the center itself will become a crafted element. As stated above there is a high concentration of refugees within the Bay Area making it a prime location for the Center for the Survivors of Torture. Though building a connection with the community farm the center can also help the client build relationships with the community and further their healing process.

figure 22. leather crafting

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>conclusion

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figure 24. maker space section perspective

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The need for The California Center for Torture Survivors is strong in the bay area and across the world. As political tensions rise and civilizations flee from one and other the number refuges will increase. CALIFORNIA SITE PLAN Through community connections, working with the site and designing a space through which the client can not only heal physically and mentally but also grow as an individual the center will become a corner stone to the community. Until peace is present there will always be a need for a center.

bibliography

chapter V

TEXT -“Ainsley, Julia Edwards. “Trump expected to order temporary ban on refugees.” Reuters. Thomson Reuters, 25 Jan. 2017. Web. 23 Feb. 2017. Amnesty International. Amnesty International Report on Torture. London: Gerald Duckworth & Co. Ltd., 1973. APT - Association for the Prevention of Torture. A Legal Definition of Torture. n.d. 26 Aug. 2016. Burns, George W. Nature-guided therapy: brief integrative strategies for health and well-being. Philadelphia, PA: Brunner/Mazel, 1998. Print.

humanitarian crisis since 1945?” Subscribe to read. Financial times, 15 Mar. 17. Web. 16 Mar. 2017. Reclaiming.” The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy 4.2.13 (2016): 1-6. Web. 25 Jan. 2017. Sidler , Scott. “American Craftsman Style.” The Craftsman Blog. N.p., 02 June 2013. Web. 02 Feb. 2017. “U.S. Home to Far More Refugee Torture Survivors than Previously Believed.” The Center for Victims of Torture. 29 Sep. 2015. Web. 01 Sept. 2016

Center for Victims of Torture, www.cvt.org. Accessed 27 Aug. 2016. “Project History.”

ADS Class of 2017 KSU CAPD - Susanne - SieplCoates. Survivors - healing architecture in response to political torture. Ed. Brianna Grimm and Sarah Kershner. 1st ed. Vol. 1. N.p.: Blurb, 2016. Print.

Change.” The Indian Journal of Occupational Therapy XLI.2 (2009): 43-47.Web. 25 Jan. 2017.

IMAGERY --

“FAQ About RT/TR.” FAQ About RT/TR | American Therapeutic Recreation Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Dec. 2016.

figure 1. Forbes. PTSD Graphic. Forbes. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Is More Than A Bad Story. 2015.

Gesler, Wilbert M. Healing Places. Rowman & Littlefield, 2003. Print.

figure 2. International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims. Sensory Deprivation Example. 2016.

Hauksson, Petur. n.d. http://www.cpt.coe.int/en/ working- documents/cpt-2003-91-eng.Digital. 26 Aug. 2016.

figure 3. Heatherly, Mathew. Five Largest Countries of Origin, Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital

Health Care Careers Directory. “Recreational Therapy.” Recreational Therapy – CAAHEP. American Medical Association, Chicago,Il,2011. Web. 21 Mar.2017 Lonsinge, Ken. “Celebrating 19 Years on the Web.” Craftsman Perspective: A Visual Guide to Arts and Crafts Architecture. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Feb. 2017. Aweil. “More than a million refugees have fled South Sudan, UN says.” News24. News24, 16 Sept. 2016. Web. 23 Feb. 2017. Nebbe, Linda Lloyd. Nature as a guide: nature in counseling, therapy, and education. Minneapolis, MN: Educational Media Corp., 1995. Print. Pilling, David. “Why is the world facing worst

figure 4. Heatherly, Mathew. Total Refugee Arrivals in California by Country of Origin Between 1982 and 2015, Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital figure 5. Heatherly, Mathew. Albany Location, Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital figure 6. Heatherly, Mathew. Gill Tract Location Within Albany. Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital.

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figure 7. Jin, WeiQi. Organic Farm. 2016. Architizer, Herbei Province, China. figure 8. Bastianelli-Kerze, Peter. Gooseberry Falls Visitor Center. N.d. Salem Architecture. Salmela Architect. Web. 15 Jan. 2017. figure 9. Kickstarter Headquarters. 2015. USGBC, Brooklyn. Urban Green. Web. 15 Jan. 2017. figure 10. Bastianelli-Kerze, Peter. Jones Retreat. N.d. Salem Architecture. Salmela Architect. Web. 15 Jan. 2017. figure 11. Gesler, Wilbert M. Healing places. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2003. Print. figure 12. Heatherly, Mathew. Natural Environment. Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital figure 13. Heatherly, Mathew. Built Environment. Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital figure 14. Heatherly, Mathew. Social Environment. Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital figure 15. Heatherly, Mathew. Symbolic Environment. Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital figure 16. “The Blacksmith and the King.” Our Daily Bread. N.p., 06 Apr. 2016. Web. 17 Jan. 2017 figure 17. Bose, Abhimanyu, The Leathersmith. N.d. Web. 15 Jan. 2017. figure 18. “Bolivian Women WEave Medical Heart Implants For Children.” DailyVitamina. N.p. 21 Dec. 2016. Web. 15 Jan. 2017 figure 19. Striepe, Becky. “How to Make a Plarn Basket.” Glue & Glitter. N.p. 08 Mar. 2016. Web. 15. Jan. 2017 figure 20. “Certificate in Greenwood Craft” Woodsmith Experience. N.p. n.d. Web. 15 Jan. 2017

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figure 21. “Metalsmithing & Jewelry.” Metalsmithing and Jewlry University of Alaska Anchorage. N.p n.d. Web. 04 May 2017. figure 22. “Leather Working Tools for Beginners.” Leather Artisans Blog. N.p., 02 Dec. 2016. !2b 04 May 2017 figure 23. Heatherly, Mathew. Floor Plan. Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital figure 24. Heatherly, Mathew. Maker Space Section Perspective. Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital

Final proposal

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mathew heatherly

CREATION

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CHAPTER VI >growth at the california healing center journi johnson

background information setting the scene >introduction In our world, war and dispute among nations and peoples have real and devastating effects. On a personal level, the communities, families, and individuals in the midst of political conflict and war suffer greatly. The proposed California Center for Torture Survivors is a facility tasked with serving refugees who have suffered political torture and are in need of therapy to aid in achieving a well state.

>background War and conflict exist in much of the world. As a means to alleviate suffering and fight for survival, many flee their countries. The UNHCR is an organization that is dedicated to helping refugees worldwide. They recorded statistics of the forcibly displaced in 2015. â&#x20AC;&#x153;According to government statistics, States admitted 107,100 refugees for resettlement during the year, with or without UNHCRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assistance. The United States of America accepted the highest number (66,500)â&#x20AC;? (UNHCR).

figure 1. highest percentage of refugee origins

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Their information also shows that 54 percent of refugees came from the Syrian Arab Republic, Afghanistan, and Somalia (UNHCR). Refugees are facing challenges and inconveniences that many Americans have never known, but as they come to the United States and settle in new places it is a call for compassion and service to occur. An article in the New York Times depicts a few of the struggles that refugees have on their journey to a new life. The story tells of a family debating on whether it is time to leave Jordan and part with the rest of their family in pursuit to reach the United States. They think about the comforts of home that they have lost and will lose as well as the promise of safety and freedom as they arrive in America. The family has endured much suffering and the father torture and assault; the decision to leave is a tough one, but they will push forward to

figure 2. reasons to leave

individual and community levels. We need to rebuild trust in one another and foster growth in humanity.

>torture methods & effects

figure 3. police enforcement

survive and establish a better life (Halpern and Sloan). Many people encounter such grief and turmoil, thus in the United States, there exists a need for places that establish connections among peoples of different ethnicities, cultures, religions, and backgrounds. There is a need for a place that can bring about healing at the

Through investigation, observation, and education, knowledge about torture methods have been revealed. A PBS documentary lays out government programs and rogue plans for practicing torture. Victims may be confined to small spaces, exposed to loud noises and harsh temperatures, stripped, beaten, starved, water boarded, deprived of sensory elements and more (Kirk). Survivors go on to suffer injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other life altering problems. While disheartening, it is crucial to address the discomforts and sufferings head on in order to find proper means of healing. The proposed Center for Healing will address these things; nature in connection with the built environment aims to alleviate the damage of each torturous and traumatic event. It is the hope and purpose that the architectural environment will foster relationship between the users.

>user information The refugees being served at the California Healing Center come from many different places of origin. With information from Pew Research Center, the map shows 14 countries where refugees have been known to come from in 2016 and in recent years (Igielnik and Krogstad). These people who relocate to the United States, and specifically California would be welcomed and encouraged to come to the Center.

figure 4. no turning back

Many of these countries (Bhutan, Burma, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Iran, etc.) value the building up and preservation of community. 129

Albany, California

Ukraine

Syria Iraq

Iran

Jordan

Afghanistan Bhutan Burma

Eritrea Ethiopia Uganda DR Congo

Somalia Kenya

figure 5. origins world map

They have cultures that hold up its importance. In circumstances of war and unrest, the people sacrifice for one another, fight for one another, and are thoughtful in their contributions to the larger whole. The Healing Center is established on those same principles. It thrives on the idea that individuals enter a supportive community and environment that aids their journey towards growth. In turn, the individuals may give back to this community and environment.

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While the focus for the center remains on the refugees, the administration, staff, and community make up a percentage of the population of users. Cognitive behavioral therapists, horticultural therapists, instructors, chefs, child care supervisors, and nurse practitioners are included in

Community figure 6. the people

Refugees

Administration & Staff

the grouping of staff. The director and assistant director lead the rest of the administration and staff. They too are a vital piece in making the Healing Center whole. The administration and staff are given the opportunity and goal to connect with the refugees through program and activity. The architecture and landscape support their jobs. They are the users of the facility who provide guidance to the rest. The community are those who offer support to the programs and the people of the Center. They are represented in the form of volunteers, donors, and collaborators. They too have a place and a purpose in the success of the California Healing Center. Community involvement extends to programs with the nearby elementary school and the University of California, Berkley.

>architectural idea The California Healing Center takes on the goal to be a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Retreat in the Gardensâ&#x20AC;?. The ambiance of the environment as a whole, from the site scale to the rooms, embody the idea of connection with the land in regards to healing of self. This idea of retreat is purposed on the desire for refugees to feel safe as they enter the site. It is a withdrawal from the damaging experiences of life and an introduction to a life lived in safety and freedom. The gardens become important as they facilitate the connection to nature and unite people from all walks of life in a unified effort to grow together.

>vision statement Through cultivating connection to the natural environment, horticultural therapy heals and revitalizes the users; it embraces communal support and personal growth to facilitate health and well-being.

figure 8. retreat in the gardens idea

figure 7. grasping growth

figure 9. key concepts wordle

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THERAPY & Biophilia design focus >horticultural therapy There are many types of therapies that seek to provide healing and well-being to the survivors of trauma. Horticultural therapy is the best suited therapy for the site and the people for many reasons. The nine-acre property offers ample space to use the land in a purposeful way. California’s climate and the fertile land of the Gill Tract supports a multitude of plant life. Horticulture is defined as “the science of growing fruits, vegetables, and flowers” (Merriam Webster). Horticultural Therapy is “the engagement of a client in horticultural activities facilitated by a trained therapist to achieve specific and documented treatment goals” (American Horticultural Therapy Association). It is an active practice that encourages participants to engage with one another and the earth; refugees participate in seeding, planting, weeding, and harvesting alongside therapists, volunteers, and fellow participants. The activity releases positive endorphins within the individual as they exercise the body and mind. Practitioners of horticultural therapy see the vegetation, hear the elements of the atmosphere, smell the fragrances of the plants, and touch the soil and live organisms. Furthermore, they have the opportunity to taste the vegetables, fruits, herbs and etc. (products of their meaningful work) as the harvest is brought to the kitchen and table for creation and consumption. The process of engaging with the gardens 132

figure 10. the senses

provides a depth of innate connection that some other therapies lack. Individual responsibility and personal effort are two attributes that are encouraged for success throughout a horticultural therapy program. A report produced by several researchers through the Journal of Physiological Anthropology says, “To date, various studies have demonstrated that gardening or horticultural activities reduce stress and improve self-esteem, social interactions and cognitive health. Due to these beneficial effects, horticultural activity has often been used in rehabilitation programs for patients with different types of disorders” (Min-sun Lee). PTSD is one of those disorders that horticultural therapy has been reported to improve. Horticultural therapists are vital members of the staff. They facilitate and guide therapy for the refugees. The AHTA defines them as, “specially educated and trained professionals who involve the client in any phase of gardening - from propagation to selling products - as a means of bringing about improvement in their life” (American Horticultural Therapy Association). The therapists help their clients to set specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely (SMART) goals. Through effort and achievement, one’s progress can be tracked and customized further. With the presence of a horticultural therapist,

figure 11. harvesting in the garden

clients are also encouraged to collaborate with one another. The realization of self and the building of community can be found in the practice of horticultural therapy. It opens an avenue for the refugees to combat the effects of their trauma with the healing aspects of nature.

>cognitive behavioral therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT is defined by Psych Central as “a short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment that takes a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving. Its goal is to change patterns of thinking or behavior that are behind people’s difficulties, and so change the way they feel” (Martin). The California Healing Center utilizes the power of this talk therapy in conjunction with horticultural therapy. CBT provides an outlet for refugees to discuss their experience with a licensed therapist. Group therapy allows refugees an opportunity to open up to one another about their experiences while in the presence of a professional therapist.

>biophilia Biophilia is defined as “the inherent human inclination to affiliate with nature” ( Earth Talk). Design has derived from and evolved back to this practice that seeks to dialogue with nature. Terrapin Bright Green, Christopher Alexander, and several other designers, firms, and consultants alike urge for the use of biophilia in design for its health and well-being benefits. Alexander says, “People need contact with trees and plants and water. In some way, which is hard to express, people are able to be more whole in the presence of nature, are able to go deeper into themselves, and are somehow able to draw sustaining energy from the life of plants and trees and water” (Alexander, 806). 133

a HEALING ENVIRONMENTresearch & proposal >wilbert gesler’s theory Wilbert M. Gesler, a professor at the University of Carolina at Chapel Hill, explains his research on the environments that he has encountered. He shares his expertise on healing places. Healing spaces are in essence where one feels rejuvenated and uplifted by the environment. The atmosphere adds to the person in a positive manner and promotes growth from past stunting disruptions or life’s interruptions. Healing places are embedded across the lives of people as a whole; they date back to different beliefs, cultures, and symbols that represent our commonality in the desire to feel good (Gesler). Gesler notes nature as being a common response to the question of what humans find healing. (2). This is quite possibly because we get our energy, our nutrients, our DNA, and purpose to live through and for the natural environment around us. The exercising of the senses allow a person to truly resonate with a place. Well-designed spaces should not only look good, they should feel good; they should give off an inspirational and positive energy. Gesler speaks regarding another author’s work, “Meaning is achieved through the experiences people have in places. The kinds of meaning that places give people include a sense of identity, of security, of belonging (Pred 1983); places are where people find employment and social support, where they find aesthetic pleasure and feelings of pride” (5). I agree 134

that places are something that someone will wish to claim as their own. When people visit a place time and time again because they want to, they are solidifying the deeper connection that they have with the place. Even more so, when people care about a place, they will invest themselves into it. They will spend their time there, support the facility with their money, and care for the physical building in keeping it clean and at its best. There are four aspects of a healing space that Gesler specifically highlights: natural environment, built environment, symbolic environment, and social environment.

>healing elements & built application For the natural environment, Gesler brings up the idea of biophilia hypothesis. This concept speaks to the affinity that humans have for nature; it brings comfort. Specific elements in nature heal and have been proven through various studies to have therapeutic effects. He mentions water and earth as being some of the strongest agents of a healing environment. Through the connection of these and other natural elements the overall environment is strengthened in its ability to connect to and impact the user. Water is present in the form of a fish pond that lies south of the building. Raised fountains also carry slow moving water that people are able to interact with through touch, sight and sound (See figure 11).

Perspectives and framed views in relation to the natural elements encourage users to take in their environment and provide a meaningful and healing atmosphere.

figure 12. on-site water

Visible and audible irrigation systems introduce the prospect of water as a necessity as well as an aesthetic element to be enjoyed. The presence of plants inside and outside the built environment also establish a strong connection to nature. With the presence of plants, access is important. The staff and those engaging in therapy have access and opportunities for engagement with these plants. The green wall behind the reception desk (shown in figure 12), hanging herb trays in the kitchen, and potted plants accenting the dining hall are some of the ways that vegetation has been introduced to the interior spaces. Their visual and psychological presence brightens the space.

figure 13. green wall & wood elements

The built environment can be made a healing place though attention to design in its aesthetics and functionality. According to Gesler, proper use of air ventilation, openings, and organization are some of the key aspects that have a positive impact on human behavior. The design utilizes methods to allow natural ventilation to cool the building. Air conditioning systems are placed strategically in the floors to minimize unwanted sighting while maximizing effectiveness and energy conservation. Openings, ranging from transparent to semi-transparent and fixed to operable allow daylighting to brighten the spaces. The southern glazing takes on a spectrum of visibility and daylight allowance due to the layering of shapes that make up the insulating glass units (IGUs); this design decision gives the freedom of sight to the users while mediating thermal gain and direct light. The ambiance of the environment take into account the uses of each specific space. Electric lighting provides additional aid for sight. The building utilizes it in most cases for task lighting. Materiality is purposefully present in the environment. The use of local materials that maintain a natural appearance, smell, and feel carry forward the design and give relevance in the context of Albany, California. Locally sourced wood is used for vertical slats around the columns, stairs, and furniture (shown in figure 12). Wood is also used in several spaces as flooring. The pattern of the wood creates a sense of movement and the light tone instills a calm composure. Solid oak beams are exposed throughout. They taper at the ends to give 135

the facade a light and sleek appearance. White aluminum mullions also lighten the envelope. Finished concrete is used in the interior and around exterior for durability, ease of cleanliness, and simplicity of tone. The liveliness of the garden colors are free to contrast against the solidity of its surface. Symbols are used to express meaning that we can relate to. A symbolic environment may speak to someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience, culture, or religion. These cues can be utilized as agents to heal when we design purposefully and thoughtfully. In the California Healing Center, symbols play an important role in communicating and welcoming the refugees. The center is inviting to staff, administration, and volunteers as well.

figure 14. outreach & embrace

The outstanding symbolic connection is the formal design of the building. The elongated and angled bars reach out to the site in embrace. They provide an invitation to explore the building and land. The rising and lowering of the roofs tie in with the language of the land and surrounding context. The larger angled bar on the south is lowered at the ends to symbolize connection with the earth while the smaller angle bar on the north rises at each end to reach back to the urban setting. Proper signage to guide and direct will help overcome language and the people may face. The Center utilizes symbols and color to represent difference in space. 136

Art and design within the building and landscape recognize the journey from suffering to healing. The users are able to have a lasting impact on their environment by helping to create some of these pieces. Social environments are made up of the different people that occupy the spaces of a place. Gesler highlights the importance of making the users feel welcome in the environment that is created. A therapeutic community empowers those who could potentially feel marginalized in a patient position (Gesler). Large and small gathering spaces throughout the building and site provide variety in the opportunity of socializing. The dining/multipurpose space is the largest and central-most interior gathering space. It contains a variety of seating options that enable choice for the users. Operable doors in the southern facade open to a patio adjacent to the gardens. The patio is an extension of the gathering space that emphasizes connection to the natural environment. Small group discussions can take place while larger events can occupy their own space. The classroom environments are set in a manner that encourages participation and innovation.

figure 15. dining & patio gathering spaces

Therapy rooms are retreated lifted to the second floor where they are given more privacy. Separate therapy offices allow the therapy rooms to cater to the clients. The community creation of unique

gardens also provide opportunity for purposeful contribution and social interaction between users. Children’s, and beginner’s gardens differentiate levels of horticultural practice to promote a comfortable environment for all. Further activity within the garden and in the building promote connection between people and the nature around. In order to heal a person the environment must be supportive of such a phenomenon. The goal of the Center is to be a catalyst in the process of that healing; creating positive experience throughout compiles to form an overall fondness of the place. This environment is made up of many aspects: the architecture, the landscape, and the ambiance, all working together to enliven the people. In designing an entire scenario to aid the refugee who have survived torture and hardship, all must be sensitive and respectful of that truth. Every element is then purposed to be helpful.

>biophilic design The landscape and architectural goal to achieve an environment that speaks “Retreat in the Garden” begins at the arrival. Users are greeted by the site of flowers, vegetation, trees and greenery; the shade and shadows are cast by the large plants and trees while the sounds and fragrances of the outdoors fill the air. Gardens surround the unified building as it comes from and cascades down to the land. The entry way leads you through trees and plantings to the glass facade. The entrance is comforting as it joins the different volumes of the building, pulling people into its embrace. The exterior materials are complements to the land and the natural environment as they reveal earth colored tones and feel of nature’s textures.

The first interior space embraces the idea of interior vegetation and mediated privacy. Dover concludes that vegetation is useful within the built environment for noise reduction, illness prevention, air conditioning, air quality management, microbial load reduction, and overall health and wellbeing (Dover). Natural systems improve interior spaces. Cooper also supports interior vegetation in his article “Biophilic Design in the Workplace”. Natural influences within the built environment have measurable and positive effects on the individuals occupying the space. Not only does plant life increase health, but it also increases creativity and happiness within a workplace. Biophilic design is a now desirable and becoming widespread (Cooper). Green walls made up of several types of plants act as a noise buffer to reduce ambient sound. They give off oxygen to the inhabitants of the space while cleaning the air. The IGUs on the southern envelope contain layers of extruded polycarbonate hexagons. This assembly is connected to principals of biophilia and stems into the practice of biomimicry. The hexagon shape can be found in several aspects of nature such as the bee hive. Its functionality and aesthetic holds positive results.

>conclusion The investigation of biophilic design principles and evidence-based design literature provide a strong foundation in which the design of the facility can stand upon. Integration of vegetation through biophilic practice and the implementation of a horticultural environment creates a healing place. Therapeutic influences result from the architecture and the landscape, thus creating a built environment that works to heal those impacted by torture. It is at the California Healing Center can that these refugees can heal, grow and thrive.

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TEXT -Alexander, Christopher, Sara Ishikawa and Murray Silverstien. A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction. Oxford University Press, 1977. Book. “American Horticultural Therapy Association. “American Horticultural Therapy Association Definitions and Positions.” 2012. American Horticultural Therapy Association. Pdf. 11 December 2016. Anderson, Brock Justin. An Exploration of the Potential Benefits of Healing Gardens on Veterans with PTSD. Graduate. Logan: Utah State University, 2011. Document. Capra, Rebecca Haller, Christine Capra and Pamela Catlin. Horticultural Therapy Methods Second Edition. CRC Press, 2016. Print. Cooper, Sir Cary. “Biophilic Design in the Workspace.” 2015. Human Spaces. Digital. 2 February 2017. Dover, John W. Green Infrastructure. New York: Routledge, 2015. Print. Halpern, Jake and Michael Sloan. “Welcome to the New World.” 26 January 2017. The New York Times. Web. 15 March 2017. Martin, Ben. In-Depth: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. 2017. Web. Merriam Webster. Horticulture. 2016. Website. 10 December 2016. Min-sun Lee, Bum-jin Park, Juyoung Lee. “Physiological relaxation induced by horticultural activity: transplanting work using flowering plants.” Report. 2013. Document . Pohl, Goran and Werner Nachtigall. Biometics for Architecture and Design. Switzerland: Springer International, 2015. Print. Rao, Rajshekhar. Biomimicry in Architecture. Journal Issue. Bangalore, India: M.S. Ramaiah Institute of Technology, 2014. Document.

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Secrets, Politics and Torture. Dir. Michael Kirk. Frontline PBS. 2015. Web. UNHCR. “Global Trends Forced Displacement in 2015.” 2015. UNHCR.org. Website. 2 May 2017.

IMAGERY -figure 1. UNHCR. Highest Percentage of Refugee Origins. UNHCR. Gloabal Trends Forced Displacement in 2015. 2016. Digital. figure 2. Halpern, Jake and Michael Sloan. Reasons to Leave. The New York Times. Welcome to the New World. New York, 2017. Digital. figure 3. Halpern, Jake and Michael Sloan. Police Enforcement. The New York Times. Welcome to the New World. New York, 2017. Digital. figure 4. Halpern, Jake and Michael Sloan. No Turning Back. The New York Times. Welcome to the New World. New York, 2017. Digital. figure 5. Johnson, Journi. Origins World Map. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. with reference to Mazze, Aaron. World Map. Aaron Mazze. Free World Maps. 2016. Digital.

figure 12. Johnson, Journi. On-site Water. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 13. Johnson, Journi. Green Wall & Wood Elements. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 14. Johnson, Journi. Outreach & Embrace. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 15. Johnson, Journi. Dining & Patio Gathering Spaces. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital.

figure 6. Johnson, Journi. The People. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2016. with reference to Unnamed. Various icons. icons8. icons . 2016. Digital. figure 7. Johnson, Journi. Grasping Growth. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. with reference to Unnamed. Plantar un arbol. Blogger. Floristeria La Primavera. 2016. Digital figure 8. Johnson, Journi. Retreat in the Gardens Idea. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 9. Johnson, Journi. Key Concepts Wordle. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. with reference to Feinberg, Jonathan. Wordle. Wordle. Digital. figure 10. Johnson, Journi. The Senses. Kansas State University. Advocates. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 11. Pacific Quest. Harvesting in the Garden. Pacific Quest. Horticultural Therapy . 2016. Digital.

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CHAPTER VII

>the influence of light, nature, & social interaction on healing through mediation & mindfulness sarah kershner

Meditation & Mindfulness final paper >introduction With the increase in recent political conflicts across the globe, the number of people seeking refuge and safety from warfare is steadily growing. Approximately 30% of refugees are torture survivors, which amounts to around 400,000 refugees in the United States alone, with 37,000 of those residing in the Bay Area where the project is located (“U.S. Home to Far More”). Another percentage of refugees have experienced second-hand trauma through the torture of a loved one, such as a parent, child, or spouse. Many of these refugees in the California area come from Iraq, Iran, Syria, Somalia, Mexico, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (“Create, Heal, Inspire Annual Report 2015”). The California Center for Torture Survivors, the proposed building, will serve as a facility to promote the healing and wellbeing of survivors using meditation and mindfulness practices. By using

meditation and mindfulness as a tool to empower survivors to heal, the Center can provide services to support the practical needs of refugees, as well as promote healing through the forming of community and the fostering of healthy lifestyle habits. It should create a sense of safety and provide a sense of security, while still encouraging survivors to further engage with the community and move past their trauma. Through understanding the user groups, the site and local context, therapy methods, a framework for designing a healing environment, and considering of the evidence-based design, literature, the architecture of the facility can be formed to play an active role in improving the lives of its users. By creating a Center that focuses on the qualities of well-being and community, refugees can begin the process of healing and begin to establish roots in their new home.

>background _ torture & its effects Torture aims to harm all parts of an individual, breaking down victims physically, mentally, and emotionally. Often, the effects of torture are persistent, causing survivors to continually to suffer from trauma long after the act of torture has ended.

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figure 1. refugee crisis in syria

Torture often results in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which may manifest itself as intrusive thoughts,

Therapy as the method of treatment, which typically involves anywhere from 3 months to several years of sessions (Pomfrey). In order to better treat the cause of PTSD, rather than simply managing symptoms, it is important to understand how PTSD affects the brain.

figure 2. refugee crisis in iraq

disrupted sleep, avoidance, hyper-arousal, or a combination of these. This typically results in a significant loss of function in portions of the survivor’s life (Hauksson, Pomfrey). PTSD may also provoke physical symptoms, including digestive disorders, headaches, chest pains, or dizziness (Pomfrey). In addition to the symptoms, it is also important to understand the history associated with trauma and PTSD. According to Judith Herman, M.D., Professor of Psychiatry, public interest in psychological trauma occurs in periods throughout history. This began as hysteria, the original term for trauma typically related to childhood sexual exploitation. Trauma was later studied as combat neurosis, which is now called PTSD. This is part of the most recent push towards the more contemporary understanding of the results of sexual and domestic violence (Herman). Symptoms may be managed through medication or other treatment types, but in order for symptoms to dramatically reduce or disappear, the cause of the symptoms must first be addressed. The most commonly used treatment methods include psychotherapy and medication. Therapy often uses Cognitive Behavioral

Torture survivors have experienced a severe trauma, so the framework typically used to understand the effects of trauma also apply to those who have been tortured. This includes survivors who experience persistent symptoms, including PTSD. Trauma may impact the amygdala, the hippocampus, and the prefrontal cortex in the brain. The amygdala is in the part of the brain that controls emotions, including the processing of potential threats and the initiation of the fight-or-flight response. Neuro-imaging techniques have demonstrated that the amygdala may remain more alert more often after trauma, even in non-threatening environments. This causes the brain to have trouble making decisions about approaching threats and the body’s danger response (Wolkin). The hippocampus controls memories in the brain, often interacting with the amygdala. MRI scans of some patients’ brains show smaller than average hippocampi after trauma, which may provoke intrusive memories and flashbacks. In addition to causing these issues, which may induce feelings of fear or distress, this may further falsely provoke the amygdala into an unnecessary fight-or flight response (Wolkin). The prefrontal cortex regulates behavior, emotions, and fear responses. Neuro-imaging shows less active prefrontal cortexes in some patients with PTSD. This results in its inability to override the hippocampus’ memories or shut off the amygdala’s response to falsely perceived danger (Wolkin). These three regions of the brain, in conjunction with one another, contribute to a PTSD suffers’ inability to process and 153

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pr ef ro figure 3.

figure 3. the regions of the brain affected by ptsd

react to potentially dangerous stimuli. In order to begin the process of healing, it is important to learn to productively manage these processes in order to treat the underlying cause of the symptoms of the condition. Learning to regulate these processes can help clients to better engage in therapy and other treatments that will eventually lead to wellness.

_ location The city of Albany, California, is just north of the college town of Berkeley, and close to the major metropolitan area of San Francisco. This provides an opportunity for the Center to utilize the area’s diversity and density to create an inclusive healing environment. Since Albany is a dense, urban area, the building has the potential to connect to the surrounding urban fabric, while also providing large areas of green space that can be used by staff and visitors to the facility. The area is well connected through varying methods of public transportation, which is an important 154

aspect of the project, as many users will rely on this to travel to and from the Center. San Francisco is also one of the United State’s largest sanctuary cities, which is a highly controversial method of providing legal protection for undocumented immigrants and refugees. This movement began in the 1900s based on the idea of medieval churches serving as safe havens for all, regardless of crime, race, or religion. In contemporary times, this has evolved in response to the more recent global political climate. According to Amanda Sakuma, “sanctuary cities were meant to embody America’s founding principles as a nation built by immigrants” (Sakuma). San Francisco and the Bay Area, according to Supervisor David Campos, is, “proud to be a sanctuary city” (Cowan). By establishing the California Center for Torture Survivors as a sanctuary for refugees, it can serve as a symbol of the Bay Area’s commitment to providing safety for immigrants and refugees.

_ users The California Center for Torture Survivors focuses on providing services to refugees living in the Bay Area, as well as visitors that may have come to seek the facility’s expertise. While the Center is not specifically designed for children, they are still welcome to participate in programs and services that the Center provides. A non-denominational sacred space allows users from all cultures and religions to rely on the center as a spiritual place that provides the opportunity to connect with others from one’s culture or religion, as well as form connections with community members with differing backgrounds. The Center will typically serve 155 users each day, with the potential for 80 more users each day that come to participate in community events or classes.

n & m py in ,n df ad u u tri m tio lnes in is n, s t ou ra tio & m td ed oo n & r su icin cl e as pp se or s t & pr og ra m s (v ar ie s)

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15 meditation & mindfulness

36 therapy, nutrition, & medicine

32 20

administration & support

outdoor

figure 4. potential daily users

> vision statement “A sanctuary that encourages meditation and mindfulness practices through a reflective and contemplative atmosphere”

> therapies for treatment of trauma _ meditation & mindfulness The central focus of the California Center for Torture Survivors is creating a healing environment for survivors through the use of meditation and mindfulness practices, in combination with a variety of other related services. The intention is that these services, in conjunction, provide users with an opportunity to achieve wellness, as well as connect with their local community. While much of the literature documents the effectiveness of meditation and mindfulness practices

on military veterans with PTSD, the same logic can be applied to survivors of torture with PTSD and severe trauma as well. The practice of mindfulness is “commonly conceptualized as involving attention to and awareness of the present moment, and nonjudgmental acceptance” (Vujanovic et al.). It focuses on thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Mindfulness has been found to increase the benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy and prolonged exposure therapy, two common methods for treatment of PTSD and other symptoms commonly exhibited by survivors of torture. Meditation has been shown to aid in helping patients to engage, prepare, accept, and comply: Engaging relates to the patients’ abilities to positively interact with therapists; preparing allows patients to cope with emotions that surface during treatment; acceptance is about not avoiding the problem, but rather just creating distance from trauma-related thoughts and emotions; compliance helps patients to persevere through trauma processing (Vujanovic et al.). The management of PTSD requires respect, sensitivity, and skill. Meditation heals the part of the brain where traumatic memories and emotions are stored, allowing survivors to take control of their lives. Mindfulness and meditation practices have been shown to potentially increase prefrontal cortex and hippocampal activity, as well as increase amygdala function (Wolkin). This means

figure 5. an individual practicing meditation

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NUTRITION

MEDICAL

THERAPY

MEDITATION AND MINDFULLNESS

ADMINISTRATION

allowing users access to these facilities and services, the Center provides a space where users can utilize meditation and mindfulness practices to enhance their treatment, giving them a way to cope with emotions and memories that may surface throughout their treatment. Therapy methods range from cognitive behavioral therapy to prolonged exposure therapy.

_ nutrition OUTDOOR SUPPORT

figure 6. therapy interconnectivity

that survivors can potentially heal the issues that are at the root of their trauma related symptoms instead of superficially treating the symptoms. This makes meditation and mindfulness an ideal choice for a center focusing on promoting healing for survivors.

_ therapy The California Center for Torture Survivors, in addition to its meditation and mindfulness spaces, will have facilities for therapeutic treatment for symptoms of torture, such as PTSD, depression, and substance abuse, among others. By

Another important aspect of wellness is eating a nutritious and wholesome diet. Food also allows visitors to connect with others through the act of cooking and eating, as well as encourages the healing of the whole body, rather than the standalone treatment of PTSD symptoms. A healthy diet can help to enhance treatment, as well as improve the health of the user. Nutritionists on staff can assist patients with dietary planning, as well as provide instruction in the kitchen, including cooking and nutrition classes and events.

therapy meditation & mindfulness engagement

prepare for interactions with therapists

preparation

coping with emotions that surface during therapy

less rumination acceptance instead of avoidance

compliance

perseverence through trauma processing

outdoors establishing a healing relationship with nature and the Earth, as well as establishing relationships with community

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figure 7. an individual in therapy

figure 8. program

providing emotional support and coping skills for working through trauma

nutrition supporting whole-body wellness through the shared experience of cooking and consuming healthy food

medical

providing support and coordination of medical care during the healing process

administration providing financial, social, and logistic support for users of the facility, as well as the facility itself

_ medicine According to a study performed on active duty service members with PTSD, 83.7% of those practicing meditation had stabilized, as well as reduced their use of psychotropic drugs to treat PTSD after one month (Bergland). This demonstrates meditation’s effectiveness in contrast to medication. However, medication is still often necessary initially to help with the management of adverse medical issues related to trauma and PTSD. The medical portion of the facility provides access to nurses and nurse practitioners who can prescribe basic medications to deal with minor issues relating to patients’ symptoms, such as pain or sleeplessness. Individuals can work with therapists, nutritionists, primary care physicians, other medical specialists, and the patient to assist with coordinating care, providing patients with control over their treatment plans. This coordination allows users to focus on improving their wellness, rather than attempting to always control their symptoms through medication. This also provides survivors with an opportunity to manage their symptoms through life-enhancing habits such as meditation and mindfulness, rather than continue to take medication to simply mask symptoms.

_ nature Throughout history, nature has always demonstrated significant healing characteristics. Biophilia, which is defined as humans’ innate love of nature, has a multitude of proven benefits for users. It has been shown to reduce stress, improve cognitive function, improve well-being, and speed up various healing processes (Browning).

figure 9. gill tract community farm

Beyond simply having healing qualities, natural environments have also been shown to reduce tension, anxiety, anger, fatigue, confusion, and total mood disturbance (Browning). This is beneficial to survivors, as their symptoms often relate to these psychological issues, particularly if they have PTSD. The outdoor portions of the facility provide both staff and clients with access to views, as well as direct access to nature. Staff offices have easy access to private outdoor spaces, which allows users to have sessions with their care professionals either outdoors or indoors, providing a sense of control and some variation in their treatment. Other outdoor spaces, such as the group meditation courtyard, and individual meditation spaces provide quiet places for meditation and mindfulness practices, allowing users to choose where and how they will practice. The community garden allows visitors to the facility the opportunity to learn more about gardening, cooking, and nutrition, while also paying homage to the site’s current usage as a community garden and agricultural research area.

>theoretical framework for healing Based on the understanding that healing is multi-dimensional, Professor and author Wilbert M. Gesler proposes that healing places have four aspects: natural, 157

_ built dimension Architecture and enclosure have either the opportunity to help or harm its users; it is incredibly important that designers understand the potential results of design decisions so they best support building users. Spaces should have a wide variety in spatial quality, depending on use.

figure 10. the natural dimension

built, symbolic, and social. Understanding and applying a framework to creating healing spaces allows designers to create buildings and outdoor spaces that improve human well-being physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.

_ natural dimension The natural environment has long been thought to heal; humans have always had an emotional and spiritual connection to nature. A recent push in architecture has created an evidence base for the scientific effects of nature on humans and wellbeing, allowing designers to implement methods of incorporating nature that produce healing environments. This may include direct access to nature, views to nature, and passive strategies such as daylighting and natural ventilation. Biophilia, humansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; biological affinity for nature, will play an important role in the design of the California Center for Torture Survivors. The landscape of these outdoor areas will also have a dual purpose of using native plants to help connect the facility to its context. 158

figure 11. the built dimension

These may include light, volume, height, color, and texture, among others. The building should interact with the urban context, frame outdoor spaces and views, and have variation in privacy, providing users with a sense of control and security. By creating spaces that have a variation of built elements, as well as powerful formal characteristics, the building can better promote healing. The built environment of the California Center for Torture Survivors should encourage a meditative journey for clients as they utilize the resources of the building.

_ symbolic dimension The symbolic environment deals with the meaning of places and the creation of a concrete rationale for human emotions in

involved with their environment. There is an emphasis placed on establishing a sense of equality between patients and users. This can be achieved by not creating visual boundaries between accessible spaces, providing for both groups’ needs, and allowing both groups a sense of control. It is equally important to create a building that facilitates interactions between users, as well as between users and their

figure 12. the symbolic dimension

relation to their environment. As quoted in Gesler’s book, physician and anthropologist Arthur Kleinman states that, “[symbols] connect or mediate between biophysical and sociocultural worlds”. Understanding the power of symbolism can be a useful tool for designers. Through understanding the negative stigma associated with trauma throughout history, architecture can be designed to reduce the symbolic meaning associated with facilities that treated outdated understandings of trauma and focus on creating a more healing architecture. While it is important that healing architecture avoid harmful or stigmatizing symbols, it is equally important to utilize more positive symbols. In the case of meditation, this may include water, sacred proportioning and geometry, nature, and specific colors.

_ social dimension The social environment deals with the relationships that users establish within a place that contributes to their wellbeing (Gesler). By creating spaces that encourage positive social interaction, architects can provide ways for users to establish communities and to feel directly

figure 13. the social dimension

community. Through creating spaces that allow for the forming and expression of relationships and collaboration, architecture can create a more healing social environment.

>application of evidence-based design The design of the California Center for Torture Survivors will utilize findings from evidence-based design research to create an environment that promotes healing and well-being for its occupants. Design implications that were selected promote healing specifically catered towards the well-being of torture survivors, particularly through the use of access to nature, light quality, and the promotion of social interaction through architecture.

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_ the potential of nature to contribute to a healing environment (the restorative benefits of nature: towards an integrative framework) Human processing is often harmed by attention fatigue. This can be defined as a typically unpleasant state of mind in which the mind is exhausted and is generally unable to function at its full capacity (Kaplan). Ideally, this problem can be, in part, solved by creating environments that allow users access to nature which then can allow the mind to recover from this attention fatigue. Kaplan proposes that natural environments can provide characteristics that create a ‘restorative environment’ according to his research, allowing designers to better create environments that positively impact their users. He defines four elements that create this environment, which in turn reduces attention fatigue. ‘Fascination’ is attention that does not involve complete focus, but rather stems

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figure 14. dimensions of restorative environments

from curiosity. Spaces should also create a feeling of ‘being away’, which allows users to distance themselves from thoughts requiring direct attention. ‘Extent’ is the ability of a space to become another world. Finally, ‘compatibility’ between users and their environment allows them to form stronger connections with outdoor space (Kaplan). These elements can be used to create powerful outdoor spaces that contribute to the healing process. (view through a window may influence recovery from surgery) The Center should also provide users with both physical and visual access to nature from the interior of the building, through the use of internal courtyards and windows. In 1984, Ulrich found that users with views of nature instead of a wall during their hospital visit had shorter stays, fewer negative comments, lesser doses of medication, and fewer surgical complications (Ulrich). While this study proves that patients with views to the outdoors generally have better health outcomes, it should be noted that the therapeutic quality associated with those views is related to the quality

figure 15. views from a window

of exterior spaces that they look onto, which should be considered when placing windows. Windows should be placed in locations that provide both quality views to the exterior, as well as access to daylight and natural ventilation.

_ contributions of daylight to human well-being and the establishment of a contemplative mood (the impact of light on outcomes in healthcare settings) Daylight has been found to improve the ability to perform tasks, help to control the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s circadian system, and improve mood. By using lighting strategies that work well with the circadian systems, architecture can help to reduce depression, improve sleep, lessen agitation, reduce pain, and allow for greater productivity (Joseph). In terms of the wellness of both staff and patients, access to quality light aids both patients and staff in living healthier lives.

figure 16. benefits of lighting

(improving pediatric radiography patient stress, mood, parental satisfaction through positive environmental distractions: a randomized control trail) Children are particularly prone to being impacted negatively in medical environments. Through the use of lighting, including colored lights and projections, children and parents show improvements in overall mood, as well as a reduction of stress. Patients respond more positively when given control over lighting (Quan et al). Lighting should be a mixture of both natural and artificial, with the ability to control both methods through switches or window coverings, respectively. The potential to use colored glass, as well as the impact of rammed earth on the color quality of light, could help to create an atmosphere of warmth and comfort.

_ the role of social interaction in

figure 17. lighting control methods

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improving human well-being (healing design: a holistic approach to social interaction in pediatric intensive care units in the united states and turkey) Social interaction, including staff collaboration and dedication, can improve health outcomes. Positive outcomes can be encouraged through particular architectural and design techniques, including walking distances, scale, configuration and relationships, and visibility and transparency. Unscheduled social interactions related to everyday activities, including sharing the experience of cooking and eating food, can also help to improve well-being, which can be aided through the use of design strategies that encourage spontaneous interaction (Ă&#x2013;zcan). This is promoted in a variety of ways throughout the facility. A variety of distances and widths, as well as the meandering quality, of the hallways, encourages users to explore the building and interact in a variety of ways. Users always have views to the internal courtyards as well as the exterior, which promotes a feeling of connectedness. The

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figure 18. elements of social spaces

use of both rammed earth and glass provide both solid elements and transparency. Small interstitial spaces in between rooms provide opportunities for both scheduled and spontaneous interaction between users or users and staff. (physical environmental stimuli that turn healthcare facilities into healing environments through psychologically mediated effects: a systematic review) Social interaction can be encouraged through furniture arrangements within a space. Arrangements that encourage social interaction and provide a variety of seating options improve outcomes related to health and well-being. Unstructured arrangements of seating led to less personal interactions with others (Dijkstra et al.). This is again accomplished through the creation of interstitial spaces between rooms. These have small seating arrangements for meetings and discussions. Living room spaces next to the therapy, nutrition, and medical offices also allow for social interaction to occur throughout the building.

figure 19. positive seating configurations

>design implications _ site context The Gill Tract, where the building is proposed to be sited, is the current home to a community garden, as well as agricultural research fields, belonging to the University of California, Berkeley. The community garden was created by residents who occupied the site to turn it into a community resource. This site location provides the opportunity for a deeply-rooted connection to nature, as well as the possibility to use preestablished ties with the community and the University to promote integration with the local population. As Albany is an urban area, the building has the potential to connect to the surrounding urban fabric, while also providing large areas of green space that can be used by members of the community, as well as staff and users of the facility. The Western portion of the site offers the most potential in terms of the ability to connect with the surrounding urban context. Jackson Street, which runs along the western edge of the property, is also the end of the residential University Village area, with Ocean View Elementary school near the northwest corner of the site. The building form engages this context and establishes a buffer between the entrance street and the rest of the site. The embracing gesture of the building frames two large courtyard spaces, allowing building users access to nature while still having a sense of privacy and protection. The group meditation courtyard, the more public of the two, can be opened up to the outdoor dining area and community garden for events, which connects the building to its context even more.

figure 20. site plan

_ architectural idea The architecture of the facility is rooted in the idea of a sanctuary, which can be defined as a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;place of refuge or safetyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Sanctuaries are typically spiritual places, such as churches or chapels. These places are commonly built out of materials that evoke an emotional response from users and encourage reflection and contemplation through the use of materials and light. Sanctuaries typically incorporate natural light, which is often filtered or diffused through architectural light controls or the choice of glass. Materials such as rammed earth can improve the quality and color of daylight throughout the facility. A variety of opening types, including window walls, punched openings, skylights, and clerestories, as well as a variation in both translucent and frosted glass, allow for a variation in daylight intensity, as well as the creation of dynamic shadows. This variation creates interest, as well as allows users to perceive the changes in light intensity between spaces.

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e iv at pr

ic bl pu figure 21.

The polished concrete floor provides contrast to the heaviness of the walls. The ceiling is made up of slatted wood planks that hide ductwork and conduit, while also providing an opportunity for lighting. These are slightly offset from the rammed earth masses in order to allow users to better perceive the height of the rammed earth walls. The roof plane is expressed as 2” thick, except for at the full height window walls that occur between the rammed earth masses. Instead, the structure meets the columns and the roof changes to 6” of thickness. From the exterior, this allows the vertical glass plane to read as the dominating geometry. At the rammed earth masses, the roof meets the wall and is tied into the plane, while the wall visually extends 3’ past the top of the roof. Similar to the interior, this allows the rammed earth masses to read as taller and separate from the window walls.

figure 21. finding sanctuary

A variety of spatial types is important for allowing users to feel in control, as well as allowing people to connect best with their individual sense of spirituality.

_ materials The materials used in the facility evoke a feeling of warmth, naturalness, and comfort. The masses of the rooms are rammed earth walls, with some contrasting white painted gypsum wallboard partitions. The color tones in the rammed earth reflect light in warm tones, providing high quality natural light to the interior spaces. The rammed earth masses are broken up by sections of full-height glazing that allows for light, ventilation and views. 164

Gravel is used in the courtyard spaces, along with wood, to create a more tactile walking surface that has both texture and creates a sound. This engagement of the senses provides a minor distraction for users that improves their ability to heal.

_ structure The structural system occurs along the outer walls as a series of 6” x 6” Hollow Steel Section columns that replace the mullions that occur in the window wall system. This allows the structure to feel light and airy, yet still feel like an integrated and intentional part of the building system. The steel wide-flange beams are hidden from users above the plywood ceiling, allowing the structure to simply feel like part of the exterior enclosure system.

_ symbolism

_ therapy suites The therapy suites within the building house the areas where counselors, nutritionists, and nurse practitioners interact with staff. These spaces consist of an open office for staff to share. Staff would rotate depending on appointments and visiting staff would be able to use the desks as well. The exam room area is also a separate room with a skylight. This allows the medical equipment to stay out of sight unless it is being used. This provides a collaborative staff environment that allows staff to provide higher quality care. Users enter the suite through a small sitting area where they wait for their practitioners to call them back. It also has views into the courtyard, which are obscured by a water wall located in the courtyard directly behind the glass. This courtyard is used for meetings and has

A huge focus of the project, which should manifest at all scales of the design, is the idea of symbols as they relate to healing and meditation. The biggest symbol that is present in the architecture is the idea of sanctuary, which should be evident in the formal qualities as well as the details of the project. It is also important to avoid an institutional aesthetic, which is accomplished through the meandering nature of the floor plan, as well as the use of materials. The introduction of nature and plants throughout the building provides a sense of naturalness and encourages users to relax and engage in the healing process. The building form and landscape should be sensitive to the immediate context, as well as that of the Bay Area. Through a use of symbolism, the building design can better promote a sense of comfort and healing.

figure 22. model of therapy suites

small plantings as well as seating. Meetings with practitioners occurs in living room spaces that occur twice in each suite. These spaces are meant to give survivors a sense of ownership, as these appointments do not occur in a space that clearly belongs to someone else. These rooms have access to the shared courtyard space, as well as a private meditation space that overlooks the courtyard.

_ inclusiveness The center should promote a sense of equality between staff and users, as well as allow survivors to feel a sense of independence and control over their treatment and their time at the facility. Through the creation of spaces such as the living rooms, users can feel a sense of ownership over the spaces they spend time in. Wayfinding is another important aspect of the facility, as many of the users may not speak much English, if any at all. Art niches occur in the wall leading to the therapy suites in order to allow survivors to find their therapy space without asking for help or being guided.

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Access to daylight occurs through the use of punched openings, window walls, and skylights to introduce varying amount of light into spaces. Skylights wash walls with light, which is used as a tool to establish hierarchy or importance. A combination of frosted and transparent glass is used to create privacy as well as change the quality of light and shadow.

figure 23. art niches for wayfinding

_ promoting healing Healing is encouraged through a variety of different aspects relating to Geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dimensions. Access to nature is promoted through the courtyard, both the two central courtyards and the smaller ones within the therapy suites. The window walls between the masses also allow for views to nature on both sides of the corridors.

figure 24. courtyard spaces

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figure 25. punched opening, skylights, & clerestories

The social aspect of healing is promoted through a variety of methods. Social corridor spaces that wind in between the rammed earth masses provide spaces for both planned and spontaneous interaction. The community spaces that branch out to the community garden also foster the forming of relationships and collaboration.

figure 28. site context model

>conclusion figure 26. interstitial social corridor spaces

The built environment is healing through the embracing gesture of the overall building form. The wrapping of the courtyards allows them to be private, while views between the masses allow for connections to the outside from the courtyards. The rootedness and thickness of the rammed earth walls provide a sense of comfort and security. The variation in the side that the rammed earth masses are placed on allows for various points of prospect and refuge in the hallway, giving users a sense of choice. The S shape of the building creates opportunities for more light, connections to the outside, ventilation, and limited â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;corridorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; space.

figure 27. embracing form around courtyards

The increase of torture and violence in war-torn countries has led to an increase in refugees seeking safety and eventual healing. Through the architectural qualities of the California Center for Torture Survivors, refugees can begin the process of overcoming their trauma, as well as establishing a sense of belonging in their new home in California. The implementation of evidence-based design strategies creates an environment with qualities that have been proven to promote human well-being. The use of materials, sustainable design strategies, and interconnected programmed spaces promote a sense of community and sanctuary. Through the use of access to nature, light, and social interaction, users of the facility can better participate in therapy, eventually leading them towards well-being.

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bibliography

chapter XII

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Center for Victims of Torture, www.cvt.org. Accessed 27 Aug. 2016. “Project History.”

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---. Healing the Wounds of Torture. n.d. http://www. cvt.org/healingtorture. 26 Aug. 2016.

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City of Albany. Albany 2035 General Plan. 26 Jul 2016. 6 Oct. 2016.

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Cloitre, Marylene. “PTSD: National Center for PTSD.” Skills Training in Affect and Interpersonal Regulation (STAIR) -. U.S Department of Veterans Affair, 30 Aug. 2013. http://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/ continuing_ed/STAIR_online_training.asp. 01 Sept. 2016.

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“Ohlone People.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, n.d. Web. 31 Aug. 2016.

IMAGERY --

“Our Clinical Approach.” Telecare. N.p., n.d. http:// www.telecarecorp.com/clinical-approach/. 28 Aug. 2016.

figure 1. Khabieh, Bassam. “People walk past damaged site…”. 8 Nov. 2016. Photograph. Accessed 3 May 2017.

“Planetree.” Planetree. N.p., n.d. http://planetree.org/. 28 Aug. 2016. “PTSD: A Growing Epidemic.” NIH Medline Plus. 2009. Website. 1 Sep. 2016. “PTVLA | Healing Lives.” PTVLA RSS. N.p., n.d. http:// ptvla.org/. Accessed 26 Aug. 2016. “Quick Facts – California” United States Census Bureau. U.S. Department of Commerce, 2016. Website 30 Aug. 2016. SAMHSA-HRSA Center for Integrated Health Solutions. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, http://www.integration. samhsa.gov. Accessed 26 Aug. 2016. Sandler, Elana Premack. “Behavior health versus mental health”. Psychology Today, 28 Oct. 2009. Ulrich, Roger S. “Biophilic Theory and Research for Healthcare Design.” Biophilic Design: The Theory, Science, and Practice of Bringing Buildings to Life, edited by Stephen R Kellert, Judith H. Heerwagen, and Martin L. Mador, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2008, pp. 87-106. ---. Evidence Based Environmental Design for Improving Health Outcomes. Texas A&M University. 2001. Digital. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. HRSA Health Center Program, http://bphc.hrsa.gov/. Accessed 29 Aug. 2016. “U.S. Home to Far More Refugee Torture Survivors than Previously Believed.” The Center for Victims of Torture. 29 Sep. 2015. Website. 01 Sep. 2016. WebMD, LLC. Phantom Limb Pain. 2016. http://www. webmd.com/pain-management/guide/phantomlimb-pain. 30 Aug. 2016. “Western Regional Research Center.” : USDA ARS. N.p., n.d. Web. 31 Aug. 2016. World Health Organization. World Health Organization, 2016, http://www.who.int/topics/ hospitals/en. Accessed 29 Aug. 2016.

figure 2. “Refugee Children”. 20 Nov. 2013. Photograph. Accessed 3 May 2017. figure 3. Kershner, Sarah. “The Regions of the Brain Affected by PTSD”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 4. Kershner, Sarah. “Potential Daily Users”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 5. Yoga Journal. “Meditation Posture”. 2014. Photograph. Accessed 13 Dec. 2016. figure 6. Kershner, Sarah. “Therapy Interconnectivity”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 7. “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy”. Photograph. Accessed 3 May 2017.

2017.

figure 8. Kershner, Sarah. “Program”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 9. “UC Gill Tract Community Farm”. 2017. Photograph. Accessed 3 May 2017. figure 10. Kershner, Sarah. “The Natural Dimension”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 11. Kershner, Sarah. “The Built Dimension”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 12. Kershner, Sarah. “The Symbolic Dimension”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 13. Kershner, Sarah. “The Social Dimension”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 14. Kershner, Sarah. “Dimensions of Restorative Environments”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 15. Kershner, Sarah. “Views from a Window”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital.

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figure 16. Kershner, Sarah. “Benefits of Lighting”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 17. Kershner, Sarah. “Lighting Control Methods”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 18. Kershner, Sarah. “Elements of Social Spaces”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital.figure 19. Kershner, Sarah. “Positive Seating Configurations”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 20. Kershner, Sarah. “Site Plan”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 21. Kershner, Sarah. “Finding Sanctuary”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 22. Kershner, Sarah. “Model of Therapy Suites”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 23. Kershner, Sarah. “Art Niches for Wayfinding”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 24. Kershner, Sarah. “Courtyard Spaces”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 25. Kershner, Sarah. “Interstitial Social Corridor Spaces”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 26. Kershner, Sarah. “Punched Openings, Skylights, & Clerestories”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 27. Kershner, Sarah. “Embracing Form Around Courtyards”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 28. Kershner, Sarah. “Site Context Model”. Kansas State University. Meditation & Mindfulness. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital.

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FINAL PROPOSAL sarah kershner

THE CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR TORTURE SURVIVORS

>meditation and mindfulness through healing architecture sarah kershner | professor susanne siepl-coates | ads 8 | spring 2017

vision statement sanctuary that “Ameditation and

encourages mindfulness practices through a reflective and contemplative atmosphere

”

defining torture Torture aims to harm all parts of an individual, breaking down victims physically, mentally, and emotionally. Often, the effects of torture are persisting, causing survivors to continue to suffer from their trauma long after the act of torture has ended. The symptoms are varied, but often are related to post-traumatic stress disorder and may include intrusive thoughts, disrupted sleep, avoidance, and hyper-arousal (Pomfrey, 2016). building entrance & resource library

users

meditation & mindfulness

refugee countries of origin

program concept NUTRITION

MEDICAL

THERAPY

MEDITATION AND MINDFULLNESS

ADMINISTRATION

OUTDOOR SUPPORT

site location least refugees

program concept

mid-range most refugees

therapy meditation & mindfulness

daily users

engagement

formal staff -- 5 counselors, 2 nutritionists, 2 practitioners, & 2 nurses

meditation & mindfulness

36 therapy, nutrition, & medicine

32 20

administration & support

outdoor

172

prepare for interactions with therapists

preparation

coping with emotions that surface during therapy

less rumination acceptance instead of avoidance

compliance

administration -- 3 reception & library staff members, 10 administration staff, & 2 support staff members volunteers -- 5 instructors

perseverence through trauma processing

outdoors establishing a healing relationship with nature and the Earth, as well as establishing relationships with community

providing emotional support and coping skills for working through trauma

nutrition supporting whole-body wellness through the shared experience of cooking and consuming healthy food

medical

providing support and coordination of medical care during the healing process

administration providing financial, social, and logistic support for users of the facility, as well as the facility itself

Mindfulness is “commonly conceptualized as involving attention to and awareness of the present moments and nonjudgmental acceptance” (Vujanovic, 2016). The implementation of meditation and mindfulness practices have been shown to vastly improve the wellbeing of users with PTSD. Meditation heals the part of the brain where traumatic memories and emotions are stored, allowing survivors to take control of their lives. Several portions of the brain, including the amygdala, which controls the processing of potential threats, the hippocampus, which controls memories, and the pre-frontal cortex, which regulates behavior and fear responses, are often impacted by trauma and PTSD. Neuro-imaging techniques have shown that meditation and mindfulness practices have increased the function of these portions of the brain, allowing survivors to better regulate their response to stimuli by addressing the root of the symptoms (Wolkin, 2016).

173

Agriculture

Therapy

(Noise Barrier)

ch an

Madison St

Adams St

_ Protected outdoor spaces _ Community inﬂuences _ Views and connectivity Jackson St

Horseshoe

Jackson St

Meditation

Meditation Space

Therapy Private Sunny Courtyard

>Focuses: Clinic and EFT Therapy

San Pablo Ave

_ Site history _ Connections _ Permiability

Ohlone Ave Medical

San Pablo Ave

Entry and Administration

San Pablo Ave

Jackson St

Albany Courthouse and Bay Area Marin Ave Cultural Connections

Parking

Meditation

Meditation Space Ohlone Sacred Circle

>Focuses:

Blossom

Therapy and Acupuncture

_ Intermediate courtyards _ Ease of access _ Centralization

Community Garden

Wind

Parking

Ohlone Ave

Meditation Space

Medical

Meditation

>Focuses:

Nutrition (Noise Barrier)

Marin Ave

Ohlone Ave

Public Shaded Courtyard Agriculture

Entry and Administration

Wind

Nutrition Wind

Community Garden

Ocean View

Elementary School and Park

an an ch Bu

Nutrition Therapy Medical

an an ch Bu

Entry and Administration

Parking

Albany Hill Park

Adams St

Madison St

Adams St

(Noise Barrier)

ity un es m m urc Co eso R

Agriculture

Stream

site proposals Monroe Ave

Monroe Ave

Tenth St

context

Tenth St

Monroe Ave

Dartmouth St

The site is located in Albany, California, which has a population of 19,735 people as of 2015 (“Quick Facts California”). According to census information and the Center for Victims of Torture, it can be estimated that California is home to 221,891 survivors of torture, with approximately 66,567 of thos living in the Bay Area Region (“U.S. Home”).

the site loudest

public

quietest

semi-public semi-private private

noise

public vs. private

bus stop

pedestrian circulation

vehicle circulation

bike circulation

vehicle circulation

pedestrian circulation

The Bay Area and site have unique contextual conditions that create opportunities for the Center to connect to the surrounding community in meaningful ways. The site, known as the Gill Tract, is used by the University of California, Berkeley for agricultural research. The other portion is currently a community farm, which would remain as an important part of the community-oriented functions of the facility.

scale: 1/64” = 1’ -0”

174

site plan

Another relevant characteristic of the Bay Area is its identity as a sanctuary city, which is a city which aims to provide protection for undocumented immigrants and refugees. San Francisco and the Bay Area take pride in their diversity and sense of inclusion (Cowan).

b-b | site section

mechanical

telecomm.

floor plan

laundry

electrical storage

janitorial elevator machine

men’s restroom locker area women’s restroom

basement floor plan

yoga studio

tai chi studio

sacred space

parking -80 spots 4 ada

conference room

meditation studio

group meditation courtyard

community garden

storage & service bike parking

daycare center

public

group therapy

semi-public semi-private

private

library & resource center

facility medical director’s office office

charting room

nurse work area

open office

medical cleansoiled records utilityutility

finances & billing

kitchen & dining

lobby open office

therapy nutrition office office

work room

living room labyrinth

staff men’s staff women’s restroom restroom

waiting area

gathering area healing courtyard

women’s restroom

outdoor dining

courtyard private meditation

living room

men’s restroom

pedestrian circulation bike circulation

living room

staff break room

open office

private meditation

open office

waiting area

private meditation

living room

courtyard waiting area exam room

exam room

courtyard living room

living room

exam room living room

raised community garden planters

waiting area open office

courtyard private meditation

living room

community garden

0’ 5’ 10’

20’

50’

floor plan

scale -- 1/8” = 1’ - 0”

c-c | section through administration, library & resource center, & kitchen

175

precedent analysis windhover contemplative center -use of materials and creation of a contemplative space

bill & melinda gates foundation -framing of exterior space with building, views to context

_ aidlin darling design _ stanford, california _ 4,000 ft2

_ nbbj _ seattle, washington _ 640,000 ft2

de young museum -- connection between interior and exterior, use of courtyards

nk’mip cultural centre -- connection to region through natural materials, articulation of rammed earth

_ herzog & de meuron _ san francisco, california _ 293,000 ft2

_ hbbh architects _ osoyoos, british columbia _17,200 ft2

wall section

building diagrams Top Coat: Cemetitious Waterstop Sealer to Top of Parapet Puddled Earth Top Lift Prefinished Metal Flashing 1” Exterior Roofing Membrane 3/4” Plywood Sheathing Vapor Barrier 3” Rigid Insulation Slatted Wood Ceiling @ 8” O.C.

parti

views

circulation

8” Reinforced Rammed Earth Wall 4” Polyisocyanurate Insulation 8” Reinforced Rammed Earth Wall Puddled Earth Double Pane Sealed Frameless Window - Silicone in Place Continous Clear-Finish Window Stop and Trim (Top and Bottom) Puddled Earth

public private

Compacted Gravel 6” Concrete Slab on Grade Vapor Barrier Compacted Gravel 3” Rigid Insulation

public vs. private

Concrete Foundation

staff community introspective

community vs. introspective

scale -- 1/8” = 1’ - 0”

176

d-d | section through living rooms & meditation rooms in counseling suites

promoting healing

According to author Wilbert Gesler, healing is a multi-dimensional process that occurs throught 4 different facets (Gesler, 1941) -natural -- experience nature through the journey of the building, including direct access to nature, views to nature, daylighting, natural ventilation, and biophilia built -- promote a meditative journey, including openings, light, views, height, color, texture, interaction with urban context, frame outdoor spaces and views, variations in privacy, user control symbolic -- avoiding stigmatizing concepts regarding mental healthcare and ptsd, use of water, sensory experience, nature, colors, and materials social -- sense of equality between patients and users, no visual boundaries, giving sense of individual space, allowing users a sense of control, facilitating interaction between users, and promoting community involvement

social corridor space

light

access to nature

Users have access to light through clerestories connecting spaces, skylights, and window walls that allow daylight to wash entire walls.

Access to two large courtyards, as well as individual courtyards within the couseling suites, gives users direct access to nature. Views from the large courtyard to the surrounding context avoid creating the feeling of being trapped.

_Studies include: Joseph, Quan et al.

_Studies include: Kaplan, Ulrich

social interaction

inclusiveness

Social interaction is fostered through the creation of small seating areas in the interstitial spaces of the hallways. Community bonds are fostered through community-oriented program and aims to be inclusive of those with disabilities.

As users may not speak English, wayfinding for the counseling suites is done through a series of art display niches instead of words. Living room areas, mediation rooms, and open offices give both staff and users a sense of ownership of their space.

_Studies include: Ozcan, Dijkstra et. al

scale -- 1/8” = 1’ - 0”

_Studies include: Interviews from ‘Survivors’

west elevation

177

yoga studio

healing courtyard

178

counseling suite sitting area

counseling suite living room

179

CHAPTER VIII >playful healing shruti kumar

INTRODUCTIONplayful healing Due to the ongoing wars in the Middle East and civil unrest in other areas of the world, the refugee crisis has increased significantly. This increase in war and political unrest has not only given a rise to the number of refugees, but also to survivors of torture. The fear of persecution or death, experiences of torture, damages to communities and their personal properties in their respective countries has forced them to migrate. According to Centre for Victim of Torture, it is estimated over the past 20 years that the number of refugees in the United States who are survivors of torture, has risen from 30% to 44%. This estimate suggests that 1.4 million refugees living in the United States have been subjected to torture. In 2011, California housed 221,891 of the refugee population, of which 66,567 survivors live in the Bay Area. As per data collected by The National Child Traumatic Stress Network, fifty percent of the refugees living the United States are children, arising an urgent need for mental healthcare for children in specific (Ellis). This paper explores ideas for design exploration of a centre for refugee children of the age 3-12 years through a healing and nurturing environment nestled in nature. The design of the centre focuses on safety, security and privacy of these children and their families seeking help, and its adaptability for user control in order to make it a place where the healing process can occur at all levels of the human body- mentally, physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually (Centre for Victims of Torture) (U.S. Home to Far More Refugee Torture Survivors Than Previously Believed).

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>background Refugee children come from countries where the psychological pain and physical torture they experience is extreme. They plan for a safe departure from their home country hoping to leave the terror and trauma they experienced behind. Ultimately refugees are seeking resettlement in developed countries. According to the statistics collected by the UNHCR, the United States of America has resettled over 51,500 refugees in 2011. (The National Child Traumatic Stress Network) A caveat is that refugees do not actually need to be persecuted in their countries of origin, but have a risk or tangible fear of being persecuted in the future, resulting in them feeling threatened. The journey of a refugee child is divided into three stages: pre-migration, in transit, and post migration. The fear of persecution the refugees experience can cause severe distress throughout the relocation process that influences their mental health status (Wessels). According to The National Child Traumatic Stress Network, 50-90% of the refugee children are traumatized and need help. Due to lack of facilities that cater to their needs, 80% of these children do not receive mental healthcare at all. Of the 20% who do receive mental healthcare, only 50% receive the services as per their specific

needs. Several sites claim to offer mental healthcare services of which 78% claim to provide services for children, but only 33% of those actually carry out mental healthcare examination for children (Ellis). The experiences of refugee children do not stop when they leave their country of origin. Rather, their struggle is long and difficult. This is a major reason why it is important to create facilities that help them cope with their problems. Their experiences in their countries of origin are varied and often extreme. They have to deal with more hardships as they step into resettling in a new country with major cultural and linguistic barriers that pose problems for them to intermingle with the new society they now belong to. This results in mental and emotional issues such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), resilience and suffering. To deal with these problems, the centres need to be equipped with facilities that help refugee children in their recovery process in order to merge into the new social structure. According to Play Therapy International, 71% of the children referred to play therapy show positive results. It is also a more gentle process for treating children within the age group of 3-12 years as it uses certain tools in the process that are child friendly. (Play Therapy International)

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Trauma & Recovery playful healing >stages of trauma Pre-migration is the stage in the relocation process when the refugees still live in their home country. The in transit period is the physical relocation of refugeesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the time in their journey between home countries and host countries, and often times spent in a refugee camp. Post migration is the final stage in which refugees are relocated to a host country, where they could potentially seek asylum. During the post migration stage refugees are acculturating to their new community and society (Bhugra). An obvious cause of distress is physical or psychological trauma, including the death of a loved one, inability to live daily life, and denial of basic necessities (Khawaja). While refugee camps are often viewed as an initial point of refuge, within camp violence and illness are ever-present fears and risks. Although refugee camps are seen as a safe escape, these camps are often as dangerous and may have higher mortality rates than countries of origin due to â&#x20AC;&#x153;interethnic strife, sexual violence, and disease epidemicsâ&#x20AC;? (Adams).

figure 2. core stressors

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figure 2. stages of trauma in the lives of refugee children

>play therapy Play Therapy is a well-established discipline where a safe, confidential and caring environment is created that allows the child to play with as few limits as possible with their physical and emotional safety in mind. It allows for healing to occur at many levels through play and creativity that operate on impulses outside of our awareness, hence no medicines are used in the process. According to Play Therapy International, 71% of the children referred to play therapy show positive results. It is also a more gentle process for treating children within the age group of 3-12 years as it uses certain tools in the process that are child friendly (Play Therapy International).

figure 3. play therapy

>tool kit The therapy uses a variety of techniques through ‘The Play Therapy Toolkit’ according to the child’s wishes and skills of the therapist. These include: Creative visualization, therapeutic story-telling, drama-role play, puppets & masks, sand tray, art, music, dance, and clay. Two major approaches are ‘Non-directive play therapy’ and ‘Directive play therapy’. A skilled practitioner adopts a mix of both approaches (JP Lilly).

beginning (Play Therapy International). After the pre-treatment assessment, the first session begins with the child getting used to the play therapist, the playroom, and the play therapy process. The more shy or anxious the child is, the more difficult this period may be. After anywhere from one to several sessions, the child enters into the ‘Tentative Acceptance’ phase of treatment. During this phase, the child will probably look forward to the play therapy sessions and be eager to enter the playroom and to interact with the play therapist (Play Therapy International). During the growing phase, the child will come to better understand his or her difficulties, how to best resolve those difficulties and how to live a much happier and playful life. Typically, children will make significant advances and then slide right back into some of their problem behaviors or symptoms. These regressions can frustrate both children and parents (JP Lilly).

figure 4. play therapy toolkit

>counseling process The first meeting with the child’s play therapist starts with conducting an interview during which the parents are asked questions about the child’s early development, current functioning and present problem. This information then helps the therapist in forming a foundation for understanding the child’s difficulties, and the treatment plan. Most play therapists also complete a separate intake interview with the child to get a solid sense of his or her experience of the problems, and to make sure the child feels fully engaged in the treatment process right from the

The last being the termination phase begins when the child’s behavioral and emotional functioning has stabilized to the point that the child, parents and the play therapist are all confident in the child’s ability to maintain those gains without regular play therapy sessions (JP Lilly).

figure 5. process of play therapy

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HEALING environment playful healing >analysis According to Wilbert M. Gesler, Healing place could be understood as holding multidimensional character, such as physical, emotional, social, spiritual and mental, that play into making a place feel more relatable. It disseminates wholeness and connectedness within oneself which is not only limited to a physical cure, but heals a person from within. Gesler suggests four factors that contribute to building a healing environment are Natural, Built, Symbolic, and Social (Gesler). Gesler indicates towards the healing qualities of nature. He discusses how people recall natural landscapes as being therapeutic. One of the most important element in nature that imparts a calm and soothing feeling in peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minds is water. The built environment can directly affect the moods of the people in it. How we construct such hospitals and asylums can dramatically affect the outcomes of treatments. It can help patients to heal faster as a result of their level of comfort, and help them be more open about seeking help in the future if need be. Rooms designed to feel more relatable, with natural lighting, ventilation, windows in the rooms looking out to a view can be a starting point to inching towards achieving a place for healing. Gesler argues that people like to go to places which has something symbolic that they can identify themselves with. These symbols help in forming a connection between the biophysical and sociocultural worlds. It could be anything, 188

from a religious sign, to their national flag, something that they seek pride in pointing out to. Quality of social relationships are considered one of the most important factors in the healing process. In order to create a healing environment, it is important to focus on all four environment i.e., natural, built, symbolic, and social (Gesler).

>natural environment Gesler extols the healing qualities of nature, suggesting that many people recall natural landscapes as being therapeutic. An important element in nature, water can impart a calm and soothing feeling in peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minds. Many take a break from their fast paced life to go on a vacation close to a water source, be it the beaches, or close to a lake or a river. He claims that pets are known to be a major stress buster and can prevent people to a large extent, from going into an unhealthy state of mind. Trees and greenery also help in uplifting a person (Gesler).

figure 6. natural environment

>built environment The built environment plays a major role as to how people perceive their surroundings. The characteristics of the built environment can directly affect the moods of the people. How we construct hospitals can dramatically affect the outcomes of treatments. It can help patients to heal faster as a result of their level of comfort, and help them be more open about seeking help in the future if need be. Rooms designed with natural lighting, ventilation, windows in the rooms looking out to a view, low densities and a good drainage system can be a starting point to inching towards achieving a place for healing. In addition to this, hygiene should be the focus of all such institutions (Gesler).

much necessary to health as prescribed medication (Gesler).

figure 8. symbolic environment

>social environment Quality of social relationships is considered one of the most important factors in the healing process. The idea of hierarchical structure of a hospital is the root cause of why people refuse to go to hospitals. Addressing this issue and creating an environment where there is equality between the healer and the patient can help develop a mutual feeling of respect and trust among the staff and the patients. This can make the patients feel more at home (Gesler).

figure 7. built environment

>symbolic environment Gesler argues that people like to go to places which have characteristics that they can identify with. These symbols help in forming a connection between the biophysical and sociocultural worlds. It could be anything, from a religious sign, to a national flag, something that they seek pride in pointing out to. Practitioners use myths and tales to tell stories as a form of healing. Gesler brings up how the medical field has become so robotic in their method of treatment, by writing off a patient with prescriptions. Spiritual strength is as

figure 9. social environment

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precedent studies playful healing >analysis The project is a new building type in itself, and there have not been any facilities of the kind to have been built before. Hence, the case studies being focused on are either facilities that carry out certain parts and functions of the centre, or are similar in their attempt to engage children as this facility intends to. The two main case studies being looked at are the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Japan, and Fuji Kindergarten, Japan. While the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre for Psychiatric Rehabilitation gives an idea about what therapeutic spaces can look like, or how they can be integrated and designed in the overall design, the Fuji Kindergarten hints towards the design strategies being used in order to provide free flowing spaces for children of the age group 3-12 years, where they can play without being restricted.

one another in their seemingly random placement in the landscape. The scale of the building is small to make it relatable to children. While staff rooms are private, the children use living rooms, single rooms and alcoves. The site acts like a small city with the intimacy of a house (ArchDaily).

figure 10. exterior view

>childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centre for psychiatric rehabilitation, japan The center located in Hokkaido Perfecture in Japan is a rehabilitation center for mentally disturbed children. It is a 48,000 sq.ft. project designed by Sou Fujimoto architects. The building looks like scattered toys on the site, but each and every part is carefully placed to make flexible spaces. Alcoves between the boxes are a good playing spot while the children are still connected to the living area. The main idea is to not create a particular central point on the site, but instead to create many centers that mingle with 190

figure 11. floor plan

figure 12. interior space

>fuji kindergarten, japan The kindergarten in Tokyo was designed by Tezuka Architects and completed in 2007. It has a floor area of 14,000 sq.ft, and is in the shape of an oval with a perimeter of 600 feet. The project built for 500 children and is conceived as a single village. Its interior spaces are integrated softly with partitioning furniture. The school designed around three preserved Zelkova trees that project through the roof deck. It is built in a way that is doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fight a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural impulses, but instead engages them.

feel anxious when they are walled-in or constrained. There are no acoustic barriers as children love to be in a noisy environment (Architonic).

figure 15. interior space

figure 14. floor plan

The roof acts like a playground for children and the form is such that it allows children to run in circles.

figure 13. exterior view

It has continuous classrooms with no walls between them where kids create their own areas. This is done as kids 191

site selection

proposal

>location The site for the California Centre for Survivors of Torture is located in the East Bay region of Western California in Alameda County. It is one of the most populated counties in California with a density of over 1000-1999 people per square mile. The site is located in Albany, and the nearby towns include Berkeley to the south and Richmond to the north.

was primarily used by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In 2010, the agriculture research fields were expanded by the removal of research buildings on the site. The Cordonices Creek defines the southern boundary of the Gill Tract. The site was once occupied by native Ohlone people, and the Ohlone circle still persists on the southern end of the site as a space for ceremonial gatherings.

figure 16. albany in california

>history The Gill Tract is owned and operated by the University of California, but the land was previously used for navy barracks. The university reconfigured the land and 192

figure 17. native ohlone circle

>context The contextual parameters play a major role in selecting the region to build the facility on the 9 acre land. The site is surrounded by busy streets on three sides. The privacy on the site decreases as we move towards the intersection between San Pablo and Solano Avenue. Jackson Street feeding into residential areas is the most accessible street relatively less busy than the other two surrounding streets. The noise level towards the Jackson Street is lower in comparison to Solano Avenue which is comprises of commercial buildings. The site has a natural slope towards Jackson Street with a 10 feet drop from the side of Solano Avenue. It also has an easy access to public transportation with several bus stops within a 5 minute walking distance. There is a row of tall trees on the southern end of the site that provides natural shade to that region. This tree cover also blocks off the summer and winter winds coming from the southern side and provides a level of privacy on the site. Ocean View Elementary School on Jackson Street has had an association with the UC Gill Tract Community Farm for several years where they conduct therapeutic gardening sessions for children several times a week. The region on the site across the school provides a good opportunity to set up a facility for refugee children.

figure 19. site context

figure 18. gill tract community farms in albany

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healing place

playful healing

>nature & architecture Research suggests that the integration of architecture and nature can promote healing. Biophilia is the affinity for life or life-like processes. Richard Louv discusses how our interaction with nature is becoming increasingly limited. Playground for children are shifting indoors. Children need encounters that are more than just human. With this decreasing interaction with nature, there has been an enormous growth in nature-deficit disorders. It is important to have a health experience with nature in our immediate surroundings. He argues that evidence indicates we heal faster in the presence of nature. It is a desirable trait in a building that fully integrates our senses (Louv, Children and the Success of Biophilic Design). The design proposal for the facility provides for design possibilities surrounded by nature. Louv also talks about how therapeutic gardening where communities are infused with flower and vegetable gardens give an opportunity to residents to get involved in the process together, which largely benefits the society (Louv, Children and the Success of Biophilic Design). The integration of a kitchen for children surrounded by therapeutic gardens in the design proposal provides for this opportunity. Janine Benyus says, “We know a good design, when we see it”. She talks about how we have always been biophilics or biomimics, hence it is important to take cues from the nature in order to build 194

healing places. This can be achieved through mimicking proportions from the nature. Natural lighting, natural ventilation, natural sound, and bringing working ecosystems and bio-inspired gardens into our spaces can greatly impact a patient’s wellbeing. Michael Mehaffey discusses how the concept of biophilic research came from health care, which led the physicians and designers to study the environmental effects on a patient’s recovery process. Studies have proven that vegetation, sunlight, water, earthtoned colors and certain natural sounds such as that of a waterfall help in a speedy recovery (Benyus) (Mehaffey). The design proposal for the centre uses the healing qualities of water for a calming effect on the patients as they enter the facility. Every room in the centre has views to nature and are designed around courtyards to incorporate natural light and ventilation to provide a healing environment for its users.

>vision “A safe haven for healing tortured refugee children through play therapy in a nurturing environment nestled in nature.”

>architectural idea The facility is for refugee children within the age group of 3-12 years who are victims of torture. The basic design of the building deals with two simple forms; a rectilinear bar that addresses the street and urban context, and an oval mass that addresses

the big architectural idea of an ‘Island in the Fields’. It is surrounded by gardens, trees, pastures, and lawn, making it stand out amidst the green spaces surrounding it.

figure 20. site model

>the entrance: natural, built, symbolic, & social As the patients enter the facility, the low lying 18” wall along the sides provides seating space along the playing lawn for

children along the street. The maze in the lawn open to the street provides a space for community involvement which help promote a social environment and make the facility lively along the street. As the entrance is surrounded by green spaces, it also promotes natural environment. A low lying 5’ high wall at the entrance, 20’ away from the building façade lies next to the entrance of the building. It clearly marks the entry path while hiding the interior waiting area for the patients. This helps in providing privacy for the patients, and also makes for a private social outdoor space. As he patient nears the entry to the building, a waterfall washing down back of the low wall feeds into water channels and reflection ponds along the exterior façade, a symbolic feature of Islamic architecture. The sound from the waterfall not only provides a soothing effect as one enter the facility, but also helps the users engage their senses with the surroundings. The use of wood on the facades integrate the natural element into the built environment.

figure 21. patient entry

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figure 22. patient entry seating area

>oval courtyard: natural, built, & social The donut shaped form towards the back for play therapy spaces consists of an oval courtyard. The courtyard consists of spaces with different qualities to build a social environment. The amphitheatre and sand pit are within the courtyard, whereas seating under a trellis and another outdoor

figure 23. oval courtyard

196

seating space covered with fabric on top which diffuses sunlight provides for an ambient reading space outside the library. The oval space is surrounded by nature with views looking out to the therapeutic gardens and a large playing lawn for children.

>café and trellis: natural, built, & social The café in the facility is located at the other end of the façade facing the street from the patient entry. It is a key point in the facility that promotes community involvement and helps build a social environment, inviting people in. The cafe has an outdoor seating with planters running along it. These planters help in providing privacy and a natural environment around the facility. The café also has a trellis as a private outdoor seating space with vines hanging from it, brings in diffused sunlight into the space and provide shade.

of the spaces provide natural ventilation. In addition to the light coming into the rooms through the windows, the skylight help bring in sunlight as is washes down the wall opposite the window, providing a balanced lighting affect in the room.

figure 26. natural light in offices and cognitive therapy rooms

>alcoves: natural, built, symbolic, & social

figure 24. cafe entry from parking

figure 25. cafe outdoor trellis seating

The alcoves in the facility along the façade facing the street are a symbolic feature to Islamic architecture. These alcoves are big enough to accommodate the generally bigger sized Middle Eastern families, promoting a social atmosphere within the facility. The alcoves face a reflective ponds, also a symbolic feature, creates an ambient atmosphere as it reflected natural lighting into the space. The planters in front of the pond help in providing privacy by blocking views from the parking and the street, and also add to the natural environment for the space.

>offices & cognitive therapy rooms: natural & built The refugees are coming from MiddleEastern countries. The layout of the building is designed around courtyards dividing the building into neighborhoods, which is symbolic to the Middle East. This also gives an opportunity to integrate nature into the built environment by providing views into the courtyards, or out to the fields. Operable windows in each

figure 27. alcove section with reflected sunlight from shallow reflective water pool

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conclusion playful healing >architectural idea The facility is for refugee children within the age group of 3-12 years who are victims of torture. The basic design of the building deals with two simple forms; a rectilinear bar that addresses the street and urban context, and an oval mass that addresses the big architectural idea of an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Island in the Fieldsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. It is surrounded by gardens, trees, pastures, and lawn, making it stand out amidst the green spaces surrounding it. As one enters the facility, the water body with shallow ponds and water channels separating the centre from the street give an effect of entering a new space and strengthening the idea of an island in the fields. The aim is to create a healing environment based on Geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theory of healing places. It addresses the four factors as suggested by Gesler that contribute to creating a healing place, namely: Natural, Built, Symbolic, and Social. The building is designed in a way to incorporate nature within the design scheme, and each zone within the building is divided into neighborhoods built around courtyards. It not only helps bring in natural light and natural ventilation, but also helps provide more views to nature to help in the recovery process. Every room that occupies either patients of staff for relatively long number of hours throughout the day has views to nature through the exterior landscape, as well as to the interior courtyards providing a more nature driven experience of the facility. 198

bibliography

chapter VIII

TEXT -(Adams) Adams, K.M., Gardiner, L.D., Assefi, N. “Healthcare challenges from the developing world: Post-immigration refugee medicine.” BMJ (204). Digital. (Archdaily) Archdaily. http://www.archdaily. com/8028/children%25e2%2580%2599s-center-forpsychiatric-rehabilitation-sou-fujimoto. 3 November 2008. Web. September 2016. (Architonic) Architonic. https://www.architonic. com/en/project/tezuka-architects-fujikindergarten/5100019. n.d. Web. October 2016. (Benyus) Benyus, Janine. A Good Place to Settle. n.d. 27-42. (Bhugra) Bhugra, D. & Jones, P. “ Migration and mental illness.” Advances in Psychiatric Treatment (2001): 216-223. Digital. (Centre for Victims of Torture) Centre for Victims of Torture. www.cvt.org. n.d. Digital. 17 March 2017. (Ellis) Ellis, B. Heidi. “Trauma & Mental Health in Child and Adolescent Refugees.” n.d. Digital. (Gesler) Gesler, Wilbert M. “Chapter One.” Healing Places. n.d. Digital. (Hosey, Chapter One: The Sustainability of Beauty) Hosey, Lance. “Chapter One: The Sustainability of Beauty.” The Shape of Green: Aesthetics, Ecology, and Design. n.d. 1-10. (Hosey, Chapter Two: The Aesthetic Imperative) Hosey, Lance. “Chapter Two: The Aesthetic Imperative.” The Shape of Green: Aesthetic, Ecology, and Design. n.d. 13-29. (JP Lilly) JP Lilly, Kevin O’Connor, and Teri Krull. Play Therapy Makes a Difference. Association for Play Therapy, n.d. Digital. (Khawaja) Khawaja, N. G., White, K. M., Schweitzer, R., & Greenslade, J. “ Difficulties and coping strategies of Sudanese refugees: A qualitative approach.” Transcultural Psychiatry (2008): 489-512. Digital.

(Louv, Children and the Success of Biophilic Design) Louv, Richard. Children and the Success of Biophilic Design. n.d. 205-212. (Mehaffey) Mehaffey, Michael. Towards a Biophilic Pattern Language. n.d. (National Association of School Psychologists) National Association of School Psychologists. https:// www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/ resources/school-safety-and-crisis/war-andterrorism/supporting-refugee-students. 2015. Web. September 2016. (Pallasma, Part 2: The Body in the Centre) Pallasma, Juhani. “Part 2: The Body in the Centre.” The Eyes of the Skin. n.d. 40-41. (Pallasma, Part Two: Multi-Sensory Experience) Pallasma, Juhani. “Part Two: Multi-Sensory Experience.” The Eyes of the Skin. n.d. 41-46. (Play Therapy International) Play Therapy International. How does therapeutic play work? PTUK, 1995-2017. Digital. (The National Child Traumatic Stress Network) The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. http:// nctsn.org/trauma-types/refugee-trauma/learnabout-refugee-core-stressors. n.d. Web. September 2016. (Thomas Seery) Thomas Seery, Hillary Boswell, Anna Lara. http://pedsinreview.aappublications.org/ content/36/8/323.info. 31 July 2015. Web. October 2016. (U.S. Home to Far More Refugee Torture Survivors Than Previously Believed) U.S. Home to Far More Refugee Torture Survivors Than Previously Believed. Centre for Victims of Torture, 2015. Web. (UC Gill Tract Community Farm) UC Gill Tract Community Farm. http://ucgilltractfarm.wixsite.com/ gilltract/land-use. n.d. Web. August 2016. (Wessels) Wessels, Whitney Keltner. http:// sophia.stkate.edu/cgi/viewcontent. cgi?article=1411&context=msw_papers. 2014. Web. October 2016. (Wikimedia, Inc.) Wikimedia, Inc. https://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/San_Francisco_Bay_Area. n.d. Web. 2016.

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rehabilitation-sou-fujimoto. Photograph. November 2016.

figure 1. Kumar, Shruti. Core Stressors. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. with reference to The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. http://nctsn.org/trauma-types/refugeetrauma/learn-about-refugee-core-stressors. n.d. Digital. November 2016.

figure 13. Architonic. https://www.architonic.com/en/ project/tezuka-architects-fuji-kindergarten/5100019. Photograph. November 2016.

figure 2. Kumar, Shruti. stages of trauma in the lives of refugee children. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. with reference to Wessels, Whitney Keltner. h t t p : // s o p h i a . s t k a t e . e d u / c g i / v i e w c o n t e n t . cgi?article=1411&context=msw_papers. Digital. November 2016. figure 3. Play and Filial Therapy. http://www. playandfilialtherapy.com/services. Photograph. November 2016. figure 4. Kumar, Shruti. play therapy toolkit. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. with reference to Play Therapy International. http:// playtherapy.org/Helping-Children/About-PlayTherapy. n.d. Digital. November 2016. figure 5. Kumar, Shruti. process of play therapy. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. with reference to Ahmad, Arsalan. https:// www.slideshare.net/ArsalanAhmad/employeecounselling-4152204. Digital. November 2016. figure 6. Medical News Today. http://smartgirlsgroup. com/current-affairs/2015/07/sniffing-out-autism/. Photograph. March 2017. figure 7. Architonic. https://www.architonic.com/en/ project/tezuka-architects-fuji-kindergarten/5100019. Photograph. November 2016. figure 8. Translantic Cruise. http://freepages.family. rootsweb.ancestry.com/~schuckwj/trnslant%2002/3. htm. Photograph. March 2017. figure 9. Fundamentally Children. http://www. fundamentallychildren.com/10-common-mythsabout-play/. Photograph. March 2017. figure 10. Archdaily. http://www.archdaily.com/8028/ children%25e2%2580%2599s-center-for-psychiatricrehabilitation-sou-fujimoto. Photograph. November 2016. figure 11. Archdaily. http://www.archdaily.com/8028/ children%25e2%2580%2599s-center-for-psychiatricrehabilitation-sou-fujimoto. Digital. November 2016. figure 12. Archdaily. http://www.archdaily.com/8028/ children%25e2%2580%2599s-center-for-psychiatric-

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figure 14. Architonic. https://www.architonic.com/en/ project/tezuka-architects-fuji-kindergarten/5100019. Digital. November 2016. figure 15. Architonic. https://www.architonic.com/en/ project/tezuka-architects-fuji-kindergarten/5100019. Photograph. November 2016. figure 16. Geocurrents. http://www.geocurrents.info/ population-geography/using-gc-customizable-mapsin-the-classroom-population-density-in-california Photograph. November 2016. figure 17. Kidder, Norm. http://www.primitiveways. com/pt-tule_shelter.html. Photograph. November 2016. figure 18. Albany,CA. http://www.albanyca.org/index. aspx?page=1067. Photograph. November 2016. figure 19. UC Gill Tract Community Farm. http:// ucgilltractfarm.wixsite.com/gilltract/land-use. Photograph. November 2016. figure 20. Kumar, Shruti. site model. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Photograph. figure 21. Kumar, Shruti. patient entry. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. figure 22. Kumar, Shruti. patient entry seating area. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. figure 23. Kumar, Shruti. oval courtyard. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. figure 24. Kumar, Shruti. cafe entry from parking. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. figure 25. Kumar, Shruti. cafe outdoor trellis seating. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. figure 26. Kumar, Shruti. natural light in offices and cognitive therapy rooms. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital. figure 27. Kumar, Shruti. alcove section with reflected sunlight from shallow reflective water pool. Kansas State University, Manhattan. Digital.

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CHAPTER IX >healing architecture through agricultural & horticultural means ethan moulder

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figure 1.

figure 1. countries of origin

>introduction In response to war, poverty and civil and political unrest abroad, the ceiling cap of 85,000 refugees set by the Obama administration was reached in 2016, making this past year the one with the largest number of immigrants entering the United States in this millennium (Connor). Of the thousands who entered the country, â&#x20AC;&#x153;More than half resettled in just 10 states, with California, Texas and New York taking in nearly a quarter in the fiscal year of 2016â&#x20AC;? (Connor). In California alone, it is estimated that there are 221,891 survivors of torture, with approximately 66,567 of these people living within the Bay area where a Survivors of Trauma Center is to be designed in the city of Albany, CA (Survivors). Given that there is currently no clearly established 212

typology specific to a center for torture survivors, the challenge at hand is to create an architectural healing environment that is sensitive to and supportive of its users while also addressing the surrounding context in which it is situated.

>refugee country of origin A study by the State Departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Refugee Processing Center concluded that 49% of the refugee immigrants in 2016 came from three countries specifically: 19% from the Democratic Republic of Congo, 15% from Syria, and 15% from Burma, also known as Myanmar (Conner).

>democratic republic of congo In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a multi-fronted battle for territory, money and power between the government army and a group of mutineers have created a hostile environment where citizens are fleeing from massacre, rape, retaliation, abduction, mutilation, forced labor and extortion (Tisdall).

figure 2. democratic republic of congo

>syria What began as a peaceful antigovernmental protest in March of 2011 quickly escalated from the government to become one of the deadliest genocides to date (MercyCorps). Currently, over 4.8 million Syrian refugees are scattered throughout the region, making them the largest refugee population in the world (Gupta).

figure 3. syria

>myanmar (burma) In Burma, refugees have been displaced from their homes since 1984 when the Burmese military began terrorizing villages, stealing food and forcing them to become porters and mine sweepers, raping, torturing and killing anyone suspected of opposing them. Many people have been living in densely concentrated refugee camps for over 30 years (Burma Link).

figure 4. myanmar (burma)

213

>torture & its effects The life of an immigrant is not an easy one, especially for a refugee who is likely to suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In many cases, refugees have reported psychological, social, and physical effects from being exposed to stressful environments (Isakson).

figure 5. symptoms of ptsd

Some of the psychological effects include: loss of self-esteem, humiliation, diminished personality, flashbacks, anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide, and difficulty with concentration (Isakson).. Social effects include: emotional disconnection with loved ones, isolation, loss of social status and loss of employment (Isakson). Physical effects range from: chronic pain, blindness, loss of use of limbs, chronic headaches and many more (Isakson). Additionally, a survivor with PTSD is very likely to struggle with the ability to work efficiently and maintain close personal relationships. They are at higher risk to indulge in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, substance use, eating and sleeping disorders, as well as attempted suicide (Tull).

figure 6. trauma & recovery

figure 7. the center for victims of torture

214

>potential therapies immigrants

for

refugee

There are many therapies and models created to help people cope from traumatic experiences. Therapies range from psychological counseling to social service and healing groups. In extreme cases, outpatient medical service can be provided as well as public education and advocacy groups to help people heal (Survivors).

>healing from trauma Published in 1992, Dr. Judith Herman wrote a book titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trauma and Recoveryâ&#x20AC;? that explores the aftermath of violence from domestic abuse to political terror. This book has become the groundwork for anyone in need of healing as it highlights the three steps of the recovery process (Herman).

>the three stages of the recovery process, according to dr. judith herman

figure 8. safety & stabilization

The first of the three stages is Safety and Stabilization. People who have experienced trauma often feel unsafe in their bodies and minds. They tend to feel insecure engaging in close relationships as they struggle to regain trust in someone else. Addressing what areas of the body/ mind need to be stabilized is the first step of the recovery process (Klinic). The second stage of the recovery process is Remembrance and Mourning. This phase allows time and space for mourning of the losses associated with the past using words, emotions and silence. The goal is to be able to move through the trauma in a way where one can tell their story without being attached to the emotions that may come with it (Klinic).

figure 9. remembrance & morning

The third and final stage of recovery is known as the Reconnection and Integration phase. Now an individual has created a new sense of self and is aimed at creating a new future filled with value and meaning. A survivor can engage in close relationships and in many instances, has the courage to engage in public awareness and advocacy groups (Klinic). figure 10. reconnection & integration

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>vision statement My vision for the Survivors of Trauma Center is to create a setting in which plants & animals aid in nurturing trauma survivors through rehabilitation strategies while presenting the opportunity to improve quality of life through education & social interaction.

216

figure 11. farm in the fields

>architectural idea: farm in the fields Designing and implementing an architectural language that embodies the three countries of origin for refugees in 2016 would be a challenge, since these countries are located on three varying continents. Due to this, the design for the center for survivors of torture has been realized in a modern domestic farmhouse architecture that relates to rural farms of the surrounding Bay area. Creating a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Farm in the Fieldsâ&#x20AC;? became the main idea, using the existing agricultural crops and vegetation of the site to fit the center harmoniously within the natural landscape.

>therapies to be used in the design proposal Two of the typically administered therapies for torture survivors are horticultural and animal-assisted therapy. The decision to implement these therapies into the proposal derives from the location of the project, being located on the agricultural grounds of the University of

California, Berkeley. The project should celebrate the agricultural qualities of the site as opposed to ignoring its existing context. Implementing a farm into the design would aid in the reconnection process to healing as refugees who are often from rural countries would feel more at home if farming was their former way of life. Data confirms that 70% of the Labor Force in Burma works in the agricultural sector (Burma Labor Stats). At the Democratic Republic of Congo, 35% of the Labor Force works in the agricultural sector (globalEDGE) as 70% are reported to live in rural areas where farming is needed for their survival (New Agriculturalist). Although Syrians are not as reliant on farming, a farming approach can prove to be very important in the recovery process as plants and animals can generally help people cope with the past as well as provide them with food and financial gain in the present where they may not have any money, any food, or a job. 217

figure 12. nurturing fosters nurturing

figure 14. animal therapy

>animal-assisted therapy

>how does animal-assisted therapy work?

Animal-Assisted Therapy is a goaldirected intervention in which an animal, meeting specific criteria, is an integral part of the treatment process. This therapy is delivered and/or directed by a health/human service provider working within the scope of her/his profession. It is designed to promote improvement in human physical, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning (Nebbe).

In some therapies, animals are brought into a setting to ease the tension between the therapist and his/her client. The animal can be used to establish trust with the therapist. When this happens, the therapist can be less reliant on the animal with each visit until the therapist does not need the animal at all to talk with the client. This type of therapy is cognitive therapy. In physical therapy, the animal is used as a way to get people to exercise as they take walks and help the client with fine motor skills and mobility as they throw a ball and get outdoors. In a larger group setting similar to horticultural therapy, an animal can be brought into a room to start a conversation between group members which will help them with socializing, communication as well as expressing emotions in front of others (Nebbe).

figure 13. animals require care & patience

218

figure 15. horticultural therapy

figure 16. healing through nature

>horticultural therapy

>how does horticultural therapy work?

In this therapy, a horticultural therapist may engage with a farm, a greenhouse, and/ or a garden to create a recovery program customized to the client. Horticultural therapy is a cognitive therapy that can be used to improve oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self confidence and self esteem while stimulating thought, curiosity and sensual awareness (Nebbe).

In one type of horticultural therapy program, a therapist assigns a specific plant to an individual that shares similar qualities. Through symbolism, the plant receives treatment from the patient that is parallel to the treatment given to the patient by the staff. For instance, broken limbs on a plant are removed to show how the plant will continue to grow and be healthy.

In a group setting, plants can enhance communication skills, social interaction, cooperation and respect for others who share similar interests and accomplishments (Nebbe). Nurturing a plant can teach responsibility and empathy while helping individuals express emotions and creativity (Nebbe). In addition, the physical labor of pulling weeds, digging holes and picking plants can act as an outlet to relieve tension, frustrations and aggressions in an acceptable manner (Burns).

Another exercise involves taking shoots from the plant to be rooted and planted in another pot to signify how an individual will be safe in a new environment away from its family. Alternatively, plants can be used as an aid in teaching about lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many processes including birth, care, growth, and death (Nebbe).

figure 17. benefits of horticultural therapy

219

figure 18. traditional therapy

figure 19. animal-assisted therapy

>the role of nature for mental health Nurturing fosters nurturing (Katcher, 1992). When a person cares for something like a plant or animal, the plant and animal in return will care for the person equally (Katcher, 1992). Plants and animals are forgiving organisms, they accept people and are unconditional and uncomplicated by psychological defenses and games (Nebbe). They require care, responsibility, and mobility to plant seeds or throw a ball (Animal-Assisted Activities/Therapy Program, 1993). Plants and animals are proven to increase: range of motion, balance, fine motor control, mobility of endurance, empathy, speech and breathing, memory, sequencing, visual focus and a fulfilling reward for the hard work that goes into taking care of a plant or animal (AnimalAssisted Activities/Therapy Program, 1993). Additionally, blood pressure and pulse rates are said to decrease when with an animal (Beck & Katcher, 1983).

220

A study found that infants are less likely to suck their thumb when in the presence of an animal (Levin and Bohn). Another study conducted in a prison found that inmates are more likely to open-up to a therapist when an animal is present (Gonski, Peacock, & Ruckert, 1986). Additional research showed when an animal was brought into a care facility, there were more smiles, laughter and inter-resident communication during the session when compared to therapy or entertainment sessions. Staff reported having an easier time talking to them before and after pet visits (Cusack & Smith, 1984). By creating a touch/talk dialogue with an animal, a patient is nurturing an animal while being nurtured themselves (Katcher 1992). These studies may imply that an animal can create an emotionally safe environment to an individual at all ages.

figure 20. views to nature

figure 21. new york city high line

>access to nature to heal mind & body

>the role of social interaction to improve human well-being

A study in New York City found that tenants who invested their time and energy towards improving their building and grounds found pride in their accomplishments. Planting and caring for garden plots helped to change the attitude of the community as they shared similar goals and values. By the end of this transformation, vandalism severely dropped and the pride of ownership and happiness of the tenants significantly rose (Olszowy, 1978).

Research confirms that group therapy can be more effective in leading towards a quicker recovery than any other type of therapy (Herman). The tolerance, compassion and love one gives to another is rebounded to him/herself in this setting (Herman).

A study conducted in a hospital found that patients who have access to nature are likely to recover faster, use less pain medication, and receive more favorable ratings by the nursing staff (Ulrich 1984). Prison inmates with views of nature suffer from fewer symptoms, digestive illnesses, headaches and have fewer requests on medical services than inmates with no natural views (Moore 1982).

When together, a group can create a collective empowerment that nurtures the strength of all its members (Herman). Surveys given to battered women concludes that group therapy was the most effective source of help (Herman). Psychiatrists who worked with combat veterans found that patients who worked poorly on an individual basis excelled in a group setting (Herman). A Southeast Asian refugee program turned pessimism into optimism when in a group setting (Herman).

221

>4 elements of a healing place, according to wilbert m. gesler 1. natural Biophilia hypothesis is a theory by E.D. Wilson stating how humans have acquired an affinity for nature through time and therefore feel comforted by it. The benefits of being immersed in undisturbed nature may allow one to “get away from it all” as they can focus on themselves and their physical, mental, and/or spiritual healing (Gesler). Presenting a survivor with the opportunity to see, smell, hear and feel nature can help bring life into someone who is struggling to see the joy in it.

figure 22. natural

2. built Environmental psychologists have found through their studies that the built environment has been known to affect occupant’s mood and behavior. Building designs that are human driven and have an abundance of fresh air, adequate lighting, warm materiality and proper way finding techniques all can contribute to a patient’s early or timely recovery (Gesler). figure 23. built

3. social Developing mutual trust and equality between the healer and the healed will create the strongest therapeutic relationship where every member feels equally important (Gesler). Providing opportunities for people to reconnect to other’s who have similar experiences can be one of the most effective means of cognitive behavioral therapy (Gesler). People can motivate and inspire others through story-telling, mentorship, team building and moral support (Gesler). figure 24. social

4. symbolic Gesler suggests that symbolic representations can be displayed through art, sculpture as well as building form and shape. Physical objects such as water, trees or the presence of wildlife can carry a strong meaning of growth, life, prosperity and freedom to an individual (Gesler). The mood portrayed by the building should be upbeat, warm and friendly thereby reconnecting people to a happier time in their lives. 222

figure 25. symbolic

>proposal When designing for the California Center for Survivors of Torture, specific attention was focused on the framework of Wilbert M. Geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4 aspects of a healing environment. The following describes in detail how the proposal relates to the natural, built, social, & symbolic environment.

223

figure 26. defining space

figure 27. built environment

1. natural

2. built

By creating a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Farm within the Fieldsâ&#x20AC;? of the agricultural research grounds of the University of California, Berkeley: crops, trees and vegetation are used to define a natural enclosure around the building that is separated from unwanted wind, noise, and views in.

Designing the building to be versatile is important in giving users the ability to gain a sense of control of their surroundings, especially if they were not able to have a sense of control before.

Citrus trees are strategically located adjacent to heavily utilized program spaces to allow for pleasurable fragrances to flow within the building envelope. Orange citrus trees provide views to nature where nature may not have existed previously. The citrus trees, in addition to vegetable, herb, fruit and community gardens provide a source of nutrition to the users in return for the work, patience and nurturing that is required to grow such amenities. Proper window fenestration and building orientation improves the natural environment by allowing for views of the natural tree line to the south, Albany Hill to the northwest, and the San Pablo Ridge to the east. 224

Implementing built in furniture gives the building a richness and elegance that is hard to find in many institutional buildings that the users may have been subjected to in their countries of origin. Keeping built in furniture low to the ground below eye level can ensure that the occupants have a sense of visual empowerment as they feel secure and protected within the building envelope. Operable windows and doors allow the interior to be passively ventilated and permeable, thus improving the indoor air quality within the building by bringing citrus and flower fragrances in from the exterior. Clerestory windows are utilized to flush out warm air while providing an additional source of natural illumination to the interior.

figure 28. social variation

figure 29. visual empowerment

3. social

4. symbolic

The center provides a wide range of social spaces that are fit to groups of all sizes that can be used for formal and informal social engagements.

The center has many layers of enclosure used to keep the building protected from its external surroundings. The outermost layer is the natural environment, using crops, trees and vegetation to create a protective membrane around the center.

In the “Living” portion of the building located to the west, an alcove is provided to accommodate individuals or people in smaller groups to branch off to give themselves a moment of privacy where they can sit to think, reflect, share a meal, read a book, or drink a coffee. Pocket spaces are integrated throughout the design to ensure that the circulation remains open and non-institutionalized. The massing and layout of the buildings has been carefully articulated to create positive outdoor spaces of various sizes that speak to each other and provide for outdoor social and communal gatherings.

The second layer is formed by the built environment. Wrap around porches and cantilevering roof eaves are used to create an intermediary buffer zone that further removes the building occupants from the external surroundings which can help direct focus on healing. Defining major exterior spaces with nature and the built environment creates a cultural “heart” that brings people together. Having a strong “back” against Jackson street can mask sound while using doors and fenestration to the east to direct attention towards the morning sun and distant views of the San Pablo Ridge.

225

>conclusion The proposal for the California Center for Survivors of Torture is a viable solution to the refugee crisis taking place within and around the Bay area in the city of Albany, CA where the site is located. Research has been carefully analyzed and implemented into the design to assure that the Center is healing and contextual to its surroundings. A â&#x20AC;&#x153;farm in the fieldsâ&#x20AC;? theme is rightly justified by the agricultural setting in which the building lies upon. Providing users with a farm can ease the transition into a life in America for users from agricultural backgrounds by reconnecting them to a life filled with meaning and purpose. Case studies discuss the therapeutic qualities of plants and animals specifically and how they can heal occupants from all upbringings through proper care and nurturing skills. From an architectural standpoint, the center has integrated Wilbert M. Geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four aspects of a healing environment into the design proposal. The natural environment is expressed using

226

agricultural crops, trees, and vegetation to protect the building from unwanted wind, views and noise while further enhancing the human senses of the occupants. Sliding doors, operable windows and clerestories are provided to ensure passive ventilation strategies are met through the built envelope providing users with proper daylighting and user control. Socially, the exterior and interior spaces accommodate formal and informal gathering areas for groups of all sizes. The massing of the building create positive outdoor areas where neighboring buildings can speak to each other. The center addresses the symbolic environment by using wrap around porches and cantilevering roof eaves to create a buffer zone that psychologically separates the interior of the building with its surrounding context.

bibliography

chapter IX

TEXT -Conner, Phillip. PewResearchCenter. 5 Oct. 2016. Accessed 12 Dec 2016.

er: People, animals, and the environment. Boston, MA: Delta Society International Conference.

Survivors. Kansas State University. Blurb. 5 Jan 2016. Accessed 14 March 2017.

Gonski, Y.A., Peacock, C.A. & Ruckert, J. (1986). The role of the therapist’s pet in initial psychotherapy sessions with adolescents. Paper presented at the meeting of the Delta Society, Boston, MA.

Tisdall, Simon. theguardian. 31 May 2012. 12 Dec 2016. MercyCorps. MercyCorps. 13 Oct 2016. 12 Dec 2016. Gupta, Priyanka. ALJAZEERA. 25 June 2016. 12 Dec 2016. Burma Link. Burma Link. 27 April 2015. 12 Dec 2016. Isakson, Brian Louis. “Getting Better after Torture from the Perspective of the Survivor.” Psychology Dissertations. 2008. Tull, Matthew. “The Effects of PTSD on a Person’s Everyday Life” Verywell. 2017. Accessed 04 May 2017. Herman, Judith. Trauma and Recovery. New York City: Basic Books, 1992. Klinic. Truama Recovery. 2013. 12 Dec 2016. “Burma Labor Stats.” Nationmaster. 2017. Accessed 04 May 2017. “Democratic Republic of Congo: Economy”. GlobalEdge. 2017. Accessed 04 May 2017. Nebbe, Linda. “Nature as a Guide.” Mineapolis, MN. Educational Media Corporation. Accessed 04 April 2017

Cusack, O. & Smith, E. (1984). “Pets and the elderly: The therapeutic bond”. New York: Haworth Press. Accessed 04 May 2017. Katcher, A.H., M.D. (1992). “Pet partners instructor training”. Renton, WA: Delta Society. Accessed 04 May 2017. Olszowy, D. (1978). “Horticulture for the disabled and disadvantaged”. Springfield, IL. Charles C. Thomas. Ulrich, R. S. (1984). View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. “Science”, 224, 420-421. Moore, E. O. (1982). A prison environment’s effect on health care service demands. “Journal of Environmental Systems”, 11, 17-34 West, M.J. (1986). “Landscape views and stress response in the prison environment”. Unpublished master’s thesis, University of Washington. Accessed 04 May 2017. Gesler, Wilbert M. Healing Places. Rowman & Littlefield, 2003. Print. Accessed 04 May 2017.

Burns, George. “Nature Guided Therapy.” Philidelphia, PA. Brunner/Mazel. Accessed 04 April 2017 Katcher, A.H., M.D. (1992). “Pet partners instructor training”. Renton, WA: Delta Society Animal-assisted activities/therapy program. (1993). Olympia, WA: St. Peter Hospital. Accessed 04 May 2017. Beck, A. & Katcher, A. (1983). “Between pets and people”. New York: Putnams Sons. Accessed 07 May 2017. Levine, M. M. & Bohn, S. (1986). “Development of social skills as a function of being reared with pets”. (Summary) Abstracts of presentations living togeth-

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IMAGERY -figure 1. Moulder, Ethan. “Countries of Origin.” 2017. Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. With reference to: Connor, Phillip. “Key Facts About the World’s Refugees.” Pew Research Center. 5 Oct. 2016. Web. 18 Oct. 2016. figure 2. Akena, James. “1.5m Children Trapped in Central Congo Violence”. 2017. “SitiBe News”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 3. Denton, Bryan. “Syrian Kurdish refugees at the Yumurtalik border.” 2016. “Financial Review”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 4. Minderheit, Rohingya. “Syrians Seek Refuge”. 2017. “Themen Media Center”. Accessed 04 May 2017.

figure 18. “Physical Benefits”. 2017. “Twig”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 19. Moulder, Ethan. “Therapist/Client Relationship.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 April 2017. figure 20. Moulder, Ethan. “Client/Animal Relationship.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 April 2017. figure 21. Moulder, Ethan. “Roger Olbrich Study.” 2017. Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 April 2017. figure 22. Shutterstock. “New York High Line”. 2017. “New York Post”. Accessed 04 May 2017.

figure 5. Howland, Rebecca. “Dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder”. 2016. “Odyssey”. Accessed 04 May 2017.

figure 22. Jongmeesuk, Somchai. “Butterfly with green leaf and water drop.” “123RF.” Accessed 04 April 2017.

figure 6. Herman, Judith. “Trauma and Recovery”. 2017. “Amazon.”. Accessed 04 May 2017.

figure 23. Joli, Antonio. “Architectural Capriccio”. 2017. “Mystudios.com Gallery”. Accessed 04 May 2017.

figure 7. “The Center for Victims of Torture”. 2017. “Epic”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 8. Moulder, Ethan. “Safety and Stabilization.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 April 2017. figure 9. Moulder, Ethan. “Remembrance and Mourning.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 April 2017. figure 10. Moulder, Ethan. “Reconnection and Integration.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 April 2017. figure 11. Moulder, Ethan. “Farm in the Fields.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 12. “Goats and Dairy Animals.” 2017. “Samaritan’s Purse International Relief”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 13. “Girl Holding Goat”. 2017. “Oxfam Australia”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 14. Glasbergen, Randy. “Animal-Assisted Therapy.” 2017. “Clipart Library.” Accessed 04 April 2017. figure 15. Weinmann. Karlee “Horticultural Therapy”. 2008. “StarTribune”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 16. “Raised-bed gardening for horticultural therapy”. 2012. “Synchronicity”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 17. “Cognitive Benefits”. 2017. “Twig”. Accessed

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04 May 2017.

figure 24. Shutterstock. “Hands in the Middle”. 2017. “Shutterstock”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 25. “Stonehenge. 2017. “Caramaps”. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 26. Moulder, Ethan. “The natural environment.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 27. Moulder, Ethan. “The built environment.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 28. Moulder, Ethan. “The social environment.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 May 2017. figure 29. Moulder, Ethan. “The symbolic environment.” Kansas State University. Manhattan, KS. Accessed 04 May 2017. *All unmarked images and diagrams by Ethan Moulder

ThePROPOSAL California Center for Torture Survivors FINAL ethan moulder Refugee countries of origin in 2016

15% 15%

19%

Why are refugees fleeing from their countries of origin?

Torture and its effects

Democratic Republic of Congo

Psychological Effects

A battle for territory, money and power between the government army and mutineers have created a hostile environment where refugees are escaping from massacre, rape, retaliation, abduction, mutilation, forced labour and extortion (Tisdall).

_ loss of self esteem _ humiliation _ diminished personality _ flashbacks _ anxiety _ depression _ thoughts of suicide _ difficulty with concentration

congolese refugee camp in rwanda

living conditions in congolese refugee camp

(Isakson)

Syria

Social Effects

A peaceful anti-governmental protest in March of 2011 escalated from the government to become one of the deadliest genocides to date (MercyCorps). Today, 4.8 million Syrian refugees are scattered throughout the region, making them the largest refugee population in the world (Survivors).

_ emotional disconnection with loved ones _ loss of social status _ loss of employment

syrian refugee camp in jordan

(Isakson)

refugee in syria

Myanmar (Burma)

Physical Effects

Refugees have been displaced from their homes in Burma since 1984 when the Burmese military began terrorizing villages, stealing their food, forcing them to become porters and mine sweepers, raping, torturing and killing anyone suspected of opposing them (BURMA LINK).

_ chronic pain _ blindness _ loss of use of limbs _ chronic headaches _ many more (Isakson)

karen refugee camp in thailand

refugee in thailand

Healing from trauma: 3 Stages according to Dr. Judith Herman

Safety and Stabilization

230

Remembrance and Mourning

Reconnection and Integration

Ethan Moulder I Master’s Degree Project Entry Courtyard Looking East

Healing Therapies

Case Studies Animal Assisted Therapy

Gonski, Peacock, & Ruckert

Animal-assisted therapy is a goal-directed intervention designed to promote improvement in human physical, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning (Nebbe).

A prison found that inmates are more likely to open-up to a therapist when an animal is present (Gonski, Peacock, & Ruckert).

“My therapy is quite simple. I wag my tail and lick your face until you feel good about yourself again.”

Horticultural Therapy

Roger Ulrich

Horticultural therapy is a cognitive therapy that can be used to improve one’s self confidence and self esteem while stimulating thought, curiosity and sensual awareness (Nebbe).

A study conducted in a hospital found that patients who have access to nature are likely to recover faster, use less pain medication, and recieve more favorable ratings by the nursing staff (Ulrich).

Architectural Idea: Farm in the Fields

Site Axonometric

Purpose: care for them, they will care for you

chicken

eggs

vegetables

goat

milk

fruit

sheep

wool/yarn

herbs

Nurture Fosters Nurturing

231

ADS 8 I Spring 2017 I Susanne Siepl Coates

T = THERAPEAUTIC 1,180 SF 1

COMMUNITY 3

Director 120 SF

Hort. Thpst. Animal Thpst. Teacher 1 120 SF 120 SF 120 SF

EDUCATION 8

1,500 SF

310 SF 1

Flower Garden 600 SF

Vegetable Garden 600 SF

Bath 64 SF

Janitor Electircal 32 SF 50 SF

Green House 500 SF

PRIVATE 5

580 SF 2

Trash Pickup Dining 300 SF 150 SF

Hort. Therapy Gardens Isolation Nooks 3 @ 50 SF EACH 600 SF

lic FINANCIAL SERVICES

Pastorizing Area Milk Area 2 @ 150 SF 2 @ 75 SF

Food St. 2 @ 50 SF

T Lounge 150 SF

Hort. Talk Therapy 225 SF

T Plant Propogation 150 SF

675 SF 4

=17

SMALL GATHERING ISOLATION NOOK

EXERCISE/YOGA

DINING

LOCKER/SHOWER

EXERCISE/YOGA HEALTH AND WELLNESS

LOUNGE

Kidding Stalls Animal Barns 8 @ 40 SF 1,000 SF

CIRCULATION

KITCHEN

MECHANICAL

BATHROOM

JANITOR

MECHANICAL

SUPPORT

JANITOR STORAGE MULTI-USE SPACE

DAYCARE

GRAND TOTAL NET OF EXTERIOR

6,243.75 NSF

GRAND TOTAL NET OF INTERIOR

6,517.5 NSF

ISOLATION NOOK

TOTAL NET AREA

12,761.25 NSF

COMPUTER ROOM

EDUCATION

LIBRARY/RESOURCE

FAMILY AND FRIENDS

REFUGEES

ALUMNI

LIBRARY/RESOURCE COMMUNITY GARDEN

COMMUNITY GARDEN

EXTERIOR SPACES

EXT. ISOLATION NOOK

VOLUNTEERS

DAYCARE COMPUTER ROOM

EXTERIOR DINING STAFF

THERAPY LOUNGE

DINING

MULTI-USE SPACE

= 74 PEAK USERS INCLUDE:

LOCKER/SHOWER

KITCHEN

STORAGE

Animal Therapy 150 SF

EXTERIOR DINING EXT. ISOLATION NOOK

Site Location

Precedents

Del Norte

Siskiyou

Humboldt

Lassen

Lake

Plumas Butte

Marin

Sierra Nevada

Yuba Colusa Sutter

Placer El Dorado

Yolo

Sonoma Napa

San Francisco

FORM: modern farmhouse by olsen studio’s

Solano Contra Costa

Alpine

Sacramento San Joaquin

Alameda

San Mateo

North Bay

California

Tehama

Mendocino

The Bay Area

Modoc

Shasta

Trinity

Glenn

SPATIAL RELATIONSHIPS: salmela

BREAK ROOM

BATHROOM

THERAPY

NET INTERIOR = 25% of 4,995 SF = 1,248.75 SF

Sm. Gathering Sm. Gathering Sm. Gathering Isolation Nooks 180 SF 3 @ 50 SF Each 100 SF 150 SF

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Monterey

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Madera

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San Luis Obispo

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San Francisco

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California

East Bay

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Kern

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Santa Barbara Ventura

San Bernardino

Orange

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Los Angeles

Penninsula

Riverside

San Diego

Imperial

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STRUCTURE: backen gillam and kroeger

Architectural Inspiration

232

Over 3,000 2,000-2,999.9 1,000-1,999.9 600-999.9 300-599.9 150-299.9 50-149.9 20-49.9 5-19.9 2-4.9 below 2

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Fresno

San Benito

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Merced

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Calaveras Tuolumne

Stanislaus

Santa Clara

Population density persons per square mile, 2010-2014

Santa Cruz

MATERIALITY: backen gillam and kroeger

i-p

SOCIAL SERVICES

PRIVATE

SMALL GATHERING Small Gathering 3 @ 150 SF Each

=13 NET EXTERIOR = 25% of 5,214 SF = 1,303.5 SF

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

i-p

RECEPTION MEDICAL SERVICES

FINANCIAL SERVICES

=2 Storage 100 SF

MEDICAL SERVICES

5,214 SF

Study Lounge Advocacy 150 SF 150 SF

SUPPORT

ic PUBLIC/ ADMINISTRATION

BREAK ROOM

Computer 200 SF

ENTRY

RECEPTION SOCIAL SERVICES

EXTERIOR SPACES

Individual Gardens 12 @ 72 SF Library/Res. 300 SF

ENTRY

Daycare 300 SF

=26

Classrooms 2 @ 350 SF EACH

=13 Kitchen/Classroom Entry 300 SF 200 SF

Dining 250 SF

750 SF 5

=4 Reception 100 SF

e 1

TRANSITION ALBANY, CALIFORNIA

ADMINISTRATION

Spatial Proximity riv at

Building Program

iv at

Horticultural Greenhouse Looking South

lo se ir em ov ed re la tio n

Living Space Looking North

Vision Statement: To create a setting in which plants and animals aid in nurturing trauma survivors through rehabilitation strategies while presenting an opportunity to improve one’s quality of life through education and interaction.

The Bay Area

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Site Plan

0’

40’

80’

Site Section Service/Admin.

Education

Living

Greenhouse

Animal Barn

San Pablo Ridge

Treeline

Positive outdoor space

Views of nature

Circulation

Program Organization

233

Floor Plan

FOOD STRG.

FOOD STRG. ANIMAL BARN

CHANGING FOOD STRG.

PANTRY

FOOD STRG.

PASTEURIZING KITCHEN

FOOD

KITCHEN

2 LIBRARY DINING GROUP THERAPY

JAN. CL. LIVING

HORTICULTURE THERAPY HORT. OFFICE

MENTOR OFFICE ENTRY

RESOURCE

GREEN HOUSE 1

CLASSROOM

0’

10’

20’

Section A-A

South Elevation

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GREEN HOUSE 2

GREEN HOUSE 3

Agricultural Fields Looking West

Geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4 aspects of healing architecture Living

Living

Built

Natural

Built

Natural

Section B-B

Social

Visual Empowerment

East Elevation

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CHAPTER X >healing architecture through physiotherapy & ecotherapy sydell paul

pavilions in the park thesis paper “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” - Maria Robinson Architecture strives to create beautiful forms and spaces through a harmonious relationship with nature and the builtenvironment. Designers create an impact for each individual’s understanding and experience of the world. “Architecture enables us to perceive and understand the interactions of permanence and change, to settle ourselves in the world, and to place ourselves in the continuum of culture and time” (Palasmaa). Architecture can be a transformative vessel that celebrates change. A change that enables tortured refugees a second chance at life. The United Nations defines a refugee as “someone who has been forced to flee his or her country for fear of persecution, war, or violence.” It continues by stating: “A refugee has a fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group.” These lifethreatening situations have forced people to seek refuge in foreign countries, such as the United States. Many of the refugees fleeing to the United States (especially to California) come from the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Asia.

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Of those that have come to the United States over the past twenty years, 30% are torture survivors, approximately 500,000 people (CVT). The Center for Victims of Torture suggest that 40-50% of those victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and/

or anxiety that can drastically impair their mental and physical well-being. This statistic only addresses those who have experienced torture first-hand. Others may experience second hand torture, which is someone that is effected from the first-hand member’s traumatic experiences. In addition to their trauma, refugees must also learn to adapt to their new environment, learn new languages, and re-establish their home and identity, all while trying to go on living their daily lives. For the many refugees seeking asylum, it is the architect’s duty to design architecture that not only helps heal those who have psychological and physical damage, but also helps encourage the community to come together as one. Therefore, incorporating all of refugees’ needs into the consideration of the design would be best met using the healing process of physiotherapy and ecotherapy. These therapy types allow architecture and nature to enhance the rehabilitation and healing process of each torture survivor through engaging with the body and stimulating the mind.

>torture & its effects Refugees endure many stressful events that can be caused by political oppression, war, or even resettlement. Trauma that greatly affects both the mind and body, such as imprisonment, loss of property, malnutrition, physical assault, rape, or loss of livelihood may be experienced before they are able to reach safety. The experience of these horrific events alone

Syria

_ 4.8 million refugees since 2011 _ ﬂeeing civil war

Iraq

Afghanistan

_ 2.6 million refugees _ increased violence

Sudan

_ 641,000 refugees _ conﬂict and instability

Albany, California

Myanmar (Burma)

South Sudan

_ 727,000 refugees _ violence and food insecurity

Eritrea

Central African Republic Democratic Republic of Congo

Somalia _ 980,000 refugees _ insecurity

figure 1. refugee camp

figure 2. displacement around the world

can impact a person for a lifetime. However, the trauma does not stop after the refugee escapes. Upon fleeing chances of being separated from family or loved ones, being robbed, witnessing acts of torture, or even enduring extreme environmental conditions may occur before reaching a safe haven.

There is no linear progression when it comes to the treatment and recovery process for the torture survivor. Each refugee has his or her own variety of symptoms and the intensity and rate of recovery vary. This is because not every refugee experiences the same physical or psychological damage. The use of Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy can be used to treat a large range of torture survivors by engaging the mind-body relationship to develop healing through establishing independence and self-confidence, all while providing the tools to build a better future.

The Center for Victims of Torture states, “Torture has profound long-term effects. Physical reminders can include headaches, chronic pain, and respiratory problems. The psychological damage is often worse. Living with constant fear, debilitating depression and regular panic attacks prevents survivors from caring for themselves, their families, and contributing to their community.” Trauma leads to feeling betrayed and loosing hope in humanity. Symptoms that the torture victim might experience: hysteria, self-harm attempts, neuropsychological impairments, nonverbal communication, PTSD, somatic complaints, sexual dysfunction, revenge, immediate pain, emotional

>users _ patients The users at the California Center for Torture focuses on patients that have suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), burns, fractures, arthritis, paraplegic, depression, chronic pain, amputations, reduced mobility, sprains or strains, and more. Services are extended to torture survivors on an outpatient basis. Each survivor works with a team of specialist who help them through their healing process. Once a survivor becomes a long-time user, independence can be re-established. For survivors that do not speak English, interpreters are integrated into the daily routine at the center. Other services include connecting the survivor with the community. When the patient is ready, support services such as classes teaching patients how to navigate public transportation, tutoring survivors in English, and retaining information of safe environments such as museums, libraries, coffee shops, or grocery stores to go to can be provided.

numbing, personality changes, phantom limb syndrome, depression, or substance abuse. 241

figure 3. therapy room

figure 4. aromatherapy

_ providers & volunteers

of healing. Members of the community can come and heal or support the healing of others through engaging in physiotherapy and ecotherapy. The center encourages the community to learn, volunteer, and take a stand through advocating for the protection, care, and well-being of the torture survivors and an end to the violence.

Throughout time spent at the center providers (staff and administration) can undergo physical and psychological impacts. They have come to help the refugees heal and will need support in maintaining their own healing. They will oversee the therapy for the refugees, connect them to resources, provide educational opportunities for the community and refugees, help run the café, and advocate to the community, all while caring for themselves. To create a healing environment for all users, the providers’ needs must be met. Providers often undergoes working in noisy, busy environments that don’t offer settings for individual focus, private conversations, or moments to re-energize, increasing the risk for costly errors and staff burnouts (Steelcase). There are three types of stressors that need to be address in the design: cognitive, emotional, and physical (Steelcase). Cognitive stressors include multi-tasking, noisy and busy environment, and hygiene. Physical stressors include moving patients, not centralized supplies, long shifts, inability to rest and re-energize, and nutrition. Emotional stressors include burnouts, lack of privacy, emotional respect, and patient safety.

_ community Many American are potentially unaware of the refugee crisis. The California Center for Torture Survivors encourages the community to come and learn about the refugees’ culture and the situation that they endure. The community can also share their views, culture, and experience living in America to help refugees’ transition. The community doesn’t have any initial reasons to be at the center, but are invited to share in the purpose 242

>therapeutic treatment for trauma _ physiotherapy A significant aspect of being healthy is one’s capability to move independently through the built environment. Through exercise and physical activity, patients are re-taught basic movement functions to help them heal, develop independence, and integrate into society. Physiotherapy targets areas of the body while working to improve users’ physical state over time through exercises and stretches. Thus, developing personal strength, endurance, coordination, flexibility, and balance (Lu). The built environment needs to promote physiotherapy and engage users throughout the whole building, not just the therapy rooms or fitness

figure 5. meditative walks

figure 6. orchard

centers. Promoting movement stimulates the mind and body, aiding in the healing process.

Ecotherapy focuses on healing oneself through the healing of the earth. Howard Clinebell believes that there are three action dimensions between humans and nature: inreach, upreach and outreach.

Physiotherapy is also a platform for users to connect. Refugees might not speak the same language and find it hard to communicate verbally, so they need different ways of expressing themselves or else feelings of isolation could occur. By being physically active refugees have a way to communicate and overcome past traumatic experiences through movement (Moore). The physical movement, alone or with a group, allows a refugee to transform their overwhelming feelings into actions instead of feeling forced to express themselves verbally. In this case, physical movement becomes the physical manifestation of the soul, and the body is the medium through which emotion are expressed to the world.

_ ecotherapy Ecotherapy includes a wide range of treatment programs which aim to improve mental and physical wellbeing through outdoor activities. Healing, growth, and nurturing have a strong relationship to interaction with the earth.

Inreach focuses on self-care by immersing and being nurtured by nature and the earth. Upreach focuses on spiritual enrichment by celebrating existence within the natural world. Outreach responds by nurturing nature more responsibly and lovingly within a community. Nature is usually overlooked in the physiotherapy field; the design should encourage physical exercise and activity through an immersion of nature. Gardens, labyrinths, or therapy trails can offer opportunities for healing. Outdoor walking trails provide physical challenges such as sloping and undulation topography with varying turf to help occupants practice and build strength and confidence to overcome real-world scenarios. Activities can include physical exercise in the natural environment, nature meditation, horticultural therapy, and involvement in conversation activities.

>theoretical framework People associate place with healing. Some assume it is because there is nature, social support, or spaces for effective communication; but, the concept of a healing place goes much deeper. Wilbert Gesler describes healing as a meaning of wholeness. Healing functions as a multidimensional character that integrates the patient’s physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social components. The concept frames itself as a humanistic approach to design, contributing to an ongoing process with meaning in one’s everyday life. The idea of a humanistic approach of a healing sense of place proposes four types of “environments”: natural, built, symbolic, and social. Gesler believe for one to heal it can’t be limited to just physical care 243

NATURAL

BUILT

HEALING

SOCIAL

figure 7. playful shadows

figure 8. building confidence on various turfs

(Gesler). The environment has to focus of calming the mind, healing the spirit, tending to the emotional needs, and developing social relationships. Each one of these components cannot be self-sufficient. The connection between the mind and body is inseparable, each affecting each the other (Gesler). By breaking down these components, framework can be developed to create positive healing spaces that improve human well-being through physiotherapy (body) and ecotherapy (mind).

_ natural environment The goal of the natural environment is to connect the built environment with the landscape through an immersion of nature. Thus, creating places of aesthetic pleasure, remoteness, and beauty.

_ built environment The goal of the built environment is to create a sense of trust and security, affect the senses of the user, pride the building history, and represent symbolic power by the design.

_ social environment The goal of the social environment is to produce equality in social relations, develop a therapeutic community, and allow for social support. Healing in a social environment break down the hierarchies and division between staff and patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; development.

_ symbolic environment The goal of the symbolic environment is to create meaning through objects and spaces. This allows healing through the communication of occupantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; thoughts and behaviors. Story telling could be used to connect people to physical objects, such as water (purification), mountains (strength), or a room for 244

SYMBOLIC

figure 9. architecture as a healing environment

religious prayers (hope).

>unity of architecture & human well-being Designing a Center for torture survivors requires the investigation of the unity of architecture and human well-being through evidencebased design methods to create an environment that promotes healing for its users. This paper attempts to investigate the importance of physiotherapy and ecotherapy in a rehabilitationlike setting, and answer the following questions: Can the built environment become a therapeutic tool that incorporates the movement of the human body to assist the healing process of users with physical and mobile disabilities? How does sensory stimulation contribute to the creation of a healing place? What therapeutic benefits can gardens provide to influence healing through physical activity? Each individual heals differently based on their traumatic experience and the physical or psychological injuries, so it is crucial to address the relationships among physiotherapy and the built environment in the

TRAUMA

MOVEMENT

SPATIAL TRANSLATION

+ gardening

+ physical exercise

community

figure 10. assisting architecture

figure 11.connection to the healing process

healing process. Physiotherapy helps to target areas of the body while working to improve users’ physical state over time through exercises and stretches, thus developing personal strength, endurance, coordination, flexibility, and balance (Lu). Walking has physical and psychological benefits for human well-being through the relationship with the built environment. Environmental interventions in architecture according to Zhipeng Lu, in “Influences of Physical Environment on Corridor Walking”, provides opportunities for people to be physically active and develop independence. These design elements are used to develop successful corridors: safety, comfort/convenience, and aesthetics.

is considering corridor width and length, bathroom placements, and proper seating. An example of this is placing seating elements along the corridor to help breakup the length of the walk. Users can enjoy walking around the length of the corridor knowing they have resting points. Lastly, aesthetics focuses on the journey through the corridor. It highlights the importance of proper design placement of artwork and scenic window views. By incorporating all these levels of assistance in designing better corridors, exercises can appear more realistic and less overwhelming to someone re-learning basic mobility functions.

Safety was the highest concern, users should feel confident when walking to their destinations. By incorporating feature such as handrails, hoists, and proper flooring the design can provide support, stability, and guidance, while limiting the risk of falls or injuries. Comfort and convenience in the environment focuses on organizing activity spaces throughout the corridor in order to benefit the occupant experience. The next factor

Another way to address physiotherapy through the built environment is designing spaces that reduce visual distraction, deaf space. Deaf space is defined as an approach to architecture that is primarily informed by the way in which deaf people perceive and inhabit space (Hurley). With refugee’s background spaces should be calming and be able to react with a natural response without feeling stressed. According to Amanda Hurley, in “Redefining Deaf Space”, to achieve this the environment should create a rich multisensory space that eases mobility, expresses users’ identity, and enhances their well-being. The design should focus on how users claim and occupy space. These includes orientation of group environments to have continual visual connection, wider hallways to allow people to walk in parallel to sign or have verbal communication to one another, limiting the use of stairs in the environment to remove visual distractions and constraints, using ramps to limit visual distractions of focusing on footing, placing assisting components, and such as handrails, to encourage forward movement. Our understanding of the built environment is done entirely through our physical self and the connections between the sensory experiences and spatial awareness we have in that space. Our body sensory experiences provide information on sight, smell, taste, touch, and hearing to allow us

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figure 12. the arrival

figure 13. cleansing + reflecting

to understand our built environment. According to Steven Holl, in “Questions of Perception”, “senses relate to the image of the cosmic body; vision to light, hearing to air, smell to vapor, taste to water, touch to earth.” This is because the human body is much more than an object in space; the body is a vessel through which our connections to the surrounding world can occur simultaneously (Seamon). So, architecture should incorporate these senses in a multi-sensory level, providing information and understanding to allow patients to regain their perception of space and how it interacts with their body, which can be often lost during tragic events.

should be able to view nature and interact with it through the therapeutic process of ecotherapy, which includes working in nature (gardening) and experiencing nature (walking, cycling, viewing, and meditating). Esther Sternburg in “Healing Spaces”, state “you focus your attention on the rhythm and speed of your breathing during every bodily movement, and it becomes a soothing ritual.”

Pallasmaa describes the importance of movement within our built environment, which allows one to reconnect, reflect, and identify themselves within the surrounding world, and become a part of the overall communal existence. Pallasmaa, in “Eyes of the Skin”, states, “I experience myself through the city, and the city exists through my embodied experience.” The body and the mind act as a vessel perceiving the five senses that the architecture evokes. The architecture of the design should allow sound to help us understand spaces and what we are viewing, smell to create memorable experiences, touch to perceive an understanding and value, vision to understand the sense of movement in space, and taste to create oral sensations. It is the task of the architect to create embodied and lived existential metaphors that concertize and structure the being in the world (Pallasmaa). Architecture should fully understand the human condition.

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Gardens can be viewed as peaceful places, carved out of wilder spots (Sternburg). Gardens have provided people a place to engage nature since the beginning of history with the Garden of Eden, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and the gardens along the ancient Silk Road of Persia, India, China, and Japan (Sternburg). Viewing nature can provide many benefits for healing with patients in healthcare settings. Patients

Design principles can be established to organize healing gardens. This organization can contribute to therapeutic benefits that impact the recovery process. According to Clare-Cooper Marus, in “Healing Gardens”, supportive elements to incorporate in a healing garden can include: providing users a sense of control and access to privacy for temporary escape, social support, physical movement and mild extortion exercises (such as trails and labyrinths), and access to nature through positive distractions. These allow users to engage the gardens through auditory and tactile experiences that can aid in the recovery process. Other experiences can include bird singing, sounds of water, and flower fragrances. Nature overall fosters a network that can use physiotherapy to

figure 14. bay area

figure 15. uc berkeley research fields

contribute to a decrease in stress. Overall, nature provides the healing qualities while gardens can lead to displaying the healing process.

The Beyeler Foundation in Switzerland is an art museum that focus on natural light, the surrounding landscape, and a floating pavilion roof. Renzo Piano, the architect, achieved tranquility through the lighting quality that came through the roof.

>precedent studies

The Maggie’s Centre Garnavel in Glasgow, UK focuses on creating an environment of emotional support for users with cancer, their families, and friends (OMA). The circulation runs around the inner courtyard. Large windows provide magnificent views out, establishing a connection to nature. The circulation path is designed to set up areas of spontaneous and organized social interaction. Users have a choice whether they would like to participate in a group activity, or seek privacy.

To begin creating healing architecture that focuses on physiotherapy, precedents were observed and noted for successful and constraining spatial design. The precedents include the Rehab Basel, Beyeler Foundation, and the Maggie’s Centre Gartnavel. These precedents variations helped derive different spatial functions, building forms, and occupational usage. The qualities provided helpful insight to the design’s development. The Rehab Basel in Switzerland is a rehabilitation center for spinal cord and brain injuries. The design focuses on being in a environment that doesn’t look or feel like a hospital. The design forms a multi-functional town-like environment with streets, plazas, neighborhoods, and a community center. The design layout provides patients with control over their choices and decisions as they move, sleep, play, or eat.

>vision statement “The California Center for Survivors of Torture empowers users through physiotherapy and a connection with nature in an interactive and therapeutic environment.”

>architectural proposition _ location The California Center for Torture Survivors is located in Albany, California. Albany is situated within the Bay Area of California on the northwest corner of Alamaeda County. The location is near a highlypopulated city, San Francisco, and the University of California, Berkeley. The area’s diversity and density provides opportunities for the refugees to engage with the community. San Francisco is also marked as a Sanctuary City for refugees. A Sanctuary City is a place that protects

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CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR SURVIVORS OF TORTURE

figure 16. view from cafe to lobby

figure 17. make your mark

undocumented immigrants. The Sanctuary City provide a safe environment from the governmental immigration laws. There is also programs, such as the International Rescue Committee and Refugee Resettlement Program, that are set up to help the transition and resettlement into America.

spaces that provide stimulating forum for personal exchanges and community integration.

_ site context The siteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location, on the Gill Tract field, has presented opportunities to engage the community through urban agriculture. There are four fields that are being used for educational research and gardening on the Gill Tract. There are three research fields that are used by the University of California, Berkeley and one Community Garden. By respecting the community garden that is currently on the site, the California Center for Torture Survivors intents to integrate itself into the fields and expand on their services to better serve the community. This connection forms a bond with nature and the community which can help refugees develop roots during their transition into their new community.

_ pavilions in the park In designing a rehabilitation center, the focus has been to create a celebration of life, healing, comfort, and an engagement of the environment for torture survivors with the community. The vision for achieving this has been to create a pavilion in the park setting. The facility lies in an idyllic setting of a large open field filled with mature trees and agricultural gardens. These field encourage the design to blend gracefully into the pre-existing landscape while offering scenic views of the surroundings. The center understand itself as an open, nature immersed, vibrant piece that promises itself to furthering refugeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs and goals through the healing process, while providing 248

Nature flows from the outside park into the pavilions allowing for users sense to be stimulated. This connection evokes the healing process of Ecotherapy throughout the site. The openness allows the pavilions and the park to seem as one, allowing refuges to freely move from one space to another as they work on healing through physical movement.

>organization The ideas of physiotherapy and ecotherapy, within the setting of Pavilions in the Park, helps to provide a comforting, welcoming, stimulating, and healing environment for torture survivors. Surrounded by nature and a community farm, the Gill Tract site in Albany, California is an idea location for a healing center. The center is organized into four realms, each containing three pavilions which are united under one roof. Each realm is connected to the other through the circulation path, forming the creation of a town-like environment with streets, plazas and

figure 18. developing independence

figure 19. view down circuit

neighborhoods. Each realm acting as a neighborhood and the circulation, or circuit, creating the main street.

Shadows also dance along the facade as users move through them to reach the front door. The shadow provides life to the building, deep breathing of shadow and light, where shadow inhales and illumination exhales light (Pallasmaa).

The neighborhoods form a sense of identity that is shaped from the smaller more private courtyard within. Each courtyard reflects and supports the activities that happen in that neighborhood, while also provide a wayfinding element for users navigating the space. The smaller courtyards are broken down into the arrival neighborhood with the welcoming courtyard, the exercising neighborhood with the meditation lawn, the educating neighborhood with the sculpture garden, and the treating neighborhood with the reflection pond. Considering the refugees past, the center engages the users at their own pace. Allowing them to experience the building before entering. A water feature sits in the arrival courtyard allowing users a way to engage through sensory stimulation. The fountain serves as the first handshake to the building, the skin reads the texture, weight, density, and temperature of the fountain. The tactile sense connects us with time and tradition: the celebration of water in the middle east.

Upon entering, smells engage the users through from the café, demonstration kitchen and flower aromatherapy. The café connects the center to the urban context. It provides views out to the public street front, encouraging the community to come in. The café forms a social interaction zone and a forum for connection. The café produces food from the gardens on site, and is then prepared in the demonstration kitchen by the users and their cultural influences. The café is but one of the many pavilions which house the programmatic functions of the center. The neighborhoods are broken up into interacting, exercising, treating, and educating. The pavilions provide views out to nature, sounds, smells, and breezes. The pavilions in each neighborhood are highlighted by reinforced structural concrete boxes and an exposed space-framed roof. Wood flooring is used as an indicator of entering one of the pavilions. The natural material of the wood floor contributes to a connection to nature by providing a warm ambiance when entering the space. The circuit connects the neighborhoods while promoting physical activity throughout the whole building. Dynamic therapeutic spaces branch off for unorganized physical movement and exercise. The dynamic therapeutic spaces include: stationary stretching, perceptual awareness, full-body work outs, and privacy pods. By utilizing a radial placement around the circuit, patients can physically engage the built environment by going from one station to the next. When occupying these spaces

249

figure 20. central courtyard

figure 21. walkways that encourage social interaction

patients can visualize their improvements in relation to their ability to complete the course. This allows for patients to develop physical confidence and independence as they strive for healing. By placing assisting architectural elements, such as handrails, along the circuit and in the dynamic therapeutic spaces contributes to a sense of safety, support, and stability. Skylights are also placed above the dynamic therapeutic space to provide openings up to the sky to promote freedom and avoid a sense of confinement.

therapeutic spaces, and out into the central courtyard. The matte finish eliminates glare to allow for better visual concentration. The material provides a soft comforting texture that eliminates unwanted noise. The rubber flooring also produces traction for circulation, especially with wheelchair users.

The circuit also adds movement to the space and furthers the sensory experience. Patients, providers, and visitors circulate from one space to the next promoting spontaneous interaction. The circuit will be sized to allow two people in wheelchairs to walk parallel to each other. It will be free of stairs and ramps to eliminate visual distractions and allow users to focus on the natural, built, social, and symbolic environments. This movement helps users to engage with their built environment and understand their spatial positioning. The ceiling for the circuit will consist of a wood ceiling that transitions into a translucent glass for the double height spaces in the neighborhoods. The ceiling will appear continuous using wood planks that change directions with the movement around the building, providing guidance for users. The translucent drop ceiling in the neighborhoods allows for the direct lighting coming from the space-frame to be diffused into the pavilion spaces, while providing a soft glow above the circuit track. The soft glow helps minimize harsh shadows that could cause eye strain while moving around the circuit. The soft glow continuous onto the wood ceiling of the circuit through artificial lighting that is placed into the planks.

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The flooring in the circuit is comprised of rubber matting. This reduces strain of the feet while sustaining activity from exercises. The material is slip-resistant to prevent falls and injuries through the circuit, dynamic

Views out from the pavilions and the circuit will have a direct connection to nature. Floor to ceiling glazing will provide operable ways to access fresh air circulation and flower aromatherapy. The window wall system of the circuit provides a direct connect to the central courtyard. The central courtyard acts as the communal link, bringing the four neighborhoods together. It consists of a therapeutic tract with different turfs to walk on, gardening, a make your mark wall that evokes symbolism through writing on the wall, a water wall that can be engaged, and spaces for relaxing. The engagement to nature continues from the courtyard out to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;parkâ&#x20AC;?. Users walk through an orchard garden that is filled with native fruit trees from the middle east. From there users engage onto the therapeutic trail that weaves them through the

figure 22. aerial view of site

agriculture fields of the Gill Tract. The trail encourages community connection and engagement through the healing of physiotherapy. The trail has different turfs with undulating paths to encourage occupants to train for realworld scenarios. The center acts as an architectural extension of nature, immersing users in sensory stimulation of the natural environment, in an open and welcoming setting. The architecture incorporates elements throughout the building that enhance the healing through physiotherapy and ecotherapy. The building itself become a therapeutic tool. Spaces breathe with the sensory attributes of nature, invite exploration, collaboration, and healing. The building is designed for the healing of refugees, but encourages providers and the community to engage on the path towards well-being.

>conclusion With the increase of refugees, many of which suffer from the effects of torture and violence, the need for a center that caters to healing crucial. Through the establishment of the California Center for Torture Survivors, refugees can begin their healing process through physiotherapy and ecotherapy treatments. By engaging the body and stimulating the mind through physical movement (physiotherapy) and an immersion into nature (ecotherapy) allows one to engage in a humanistic healing experience. The implications of evidence-based design strategies create an environment with qualities that promote human well-being. This is done through the engagement of assisting architecture, sensory stimulation, and a connection to nature. The healing aspects of the place can be explained through Wilbert Geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elements. The built environment provides a secure experience of the natural environment while priding the culture of the refugees. The natural communicates with the architecture through an immersion of nature. Symbolically, the idea of the pavilions in the park promotes exploration and acceptance, through engaging sensory elements throughout the building. Water, light, colors, writing, and smells all unconsciously hold symbolism, and are used to create certain atmosphere throughout the center. Architecture must engage the senses and encourage healing through physiotherapy and ecotherapy. Engaging the body and stimulating the mind grounds the user in the moment and place to heal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Once the body discovers its resonance in space, we feel pleasure and protectionâ&#x20AC;? (Pallasmaa). Physiotherapy and ecotherapy aids torture survivors in the healing process, providing them way to develop independence and establish their place in the world. 251

bibliography

chapter X

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Hurley, Amanda. “How Gallaudet University’s Architects are Redefining Deaf Space.” Longform. Curbed, 2 Mar. 2016. Accessed 13 Feb. 2017. http://www.curbed.com/2016/3/2/11140210/gallaudetdeafspace-washington-dc.

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Seamon, David. “Merleau-Ponty, Perception, and Environmental Embodiment: Implications for Architectural and Environmental Studies.” Intertwinings: Interdisciplinary Encounters with Merleau-Ponty. Albany: State University of New York, 2008.

IMAGERY -figure 1. Refugee Camp. HRW. Refugee Camp. August, 2011. Photograph. figure 2. Grimm, Brianna. Top Ten Countries of Origin for Refugees in 2016. Kansas State University. Survivors: Healing Architecture in Response to Political Torture. Manhattan, KS, 2016. Digital. figure 3. Paul, Sydell. Therapy Room. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 4. Paul, Sydell. Aromatherapy. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 5. Paul, Sydell. Meditative Walks. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital.

figure 6. Paul, Sydell. Orchard. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 7. Paul, Sydell. Playful Shadows. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 8. Paul, Sydell. Building Confidence on Various Turfs. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 9. Paul, Sydell. Architecture as a Healing Environment. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 10. Paul, Sydell. Assisting Architecture. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 11. Paul, Sydell. Connection to the Healing Process. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 12. Paul, Sydell. The Arrival. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 13. Paul, Sydell. Cleansing + Reflecting. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital.

figure 16. Paul, Sydell. View from Cafe to Lobby. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 17. Paul, Sydell. Make your Mark. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 18. Paul, Sydell. Developing Independence. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 19. Paul, Sydell. View down Circuit. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 20. Paul, Sydell. Central Courtyard. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 21. Paul, Sydell. Walkways that Encourage Social Interaction. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 22. Paul, Sydell. Aerial View of Site. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Photograph. *all unmarked images and diagrams by Sydell Paul

figure 14. Paul, Sydell. Bay Area. Kansas State University. Strength: Healing Architecture through Physiotherapy and Ecotherapy. Manhattan, KS, 2017. Digital. figure 15. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Albany, California.â&#x20AC;? Map. Google Maps. Google, 2016. Web. Accessed 21 Oct. 2016.

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Final proposal sydell paul

CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR TORTURE SURVIVORS “PAVILIONS IN THE PARK” ALBANY, CA

SYDELL PAUL | SUSANNE SIEPL-COATES | ADS VIII | SPRING 2017

“A center that empowers users through physiotherapy and a connection with nature in an interactive and therapeutic environment. “

ARCHITECTURAL IDEA In designing a rehabilitation center, the focus has been to create a celebration of life, healing, comfort , and engagement of the environment for survivors of torture with the community. The vision for achieving this has been to create a Pavilion in the Park like setting. This is done through physiotherapy and ecotherapy mixed with a sensory stimulated journey. The center immerses the user into nature through a light, airy, and welcoming atmosphere that offers magnificent views out to the per-existing landscape. The center fosters flexible spaces that provide stimulating forum for personal exchanges and community integration.

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TORTURE AND ITS EFFECTS

Syria

_ 4.8 million refugees since 2011 _ ﬂeeing civil war

Refugees endure many stressful events that can be caused by political oppression, war, or even resettlement. Trauma that greatly affects both the mind and body, such as imprisonment, loss of property, malnutrition, physical assault, extreme fear, rape or loss of livelihood may be experienced before they are able to flee for safety.

Afghanistan

_ 2.6 million refugees _ increased violence

Sudan

_ 641,000 refugees _ conﬂict and instability

Albany, California

SYMPTOMS

Iraq

Albany, California

CAUSES

Myanmar (Burma)

South Sudan

_ 727,000 refugees _ violence and food insecurity

Eritrea

_ hysteria _ self-harm _ psychological impairments _ nonverbal communication _ PTSD _ immediate pain _ emotional numbing

_ suspension _ hyperflexion _ binding _chronic damage _ burning _ compression _ psychological manipulation

Central African Republic

RESETTLEMENT IN ALBANY

REFUGEE DISPLACEMENT

HEALING QUALITIES OF PHYSIOTHERAPY AND ECOTHERAPY A significant aspect of being healthy is one’s capability to move independently through the built environment. Through exercise and physical activity, patients are re-taught basic movement functions to help them heal, integrate into society, and develop independence. Physiotherapy targets areas of the body while working to improve users’ physical state over time through exercises and stretches. Thus, developing personal strength, endurance, coordination, flexibility, and balance (Lu).

SENSORY STIMULATION

+ TOUCH

GARDENING

PHYSICAL EXERCISE

COMMUNITY

The built environment needs to promote physiotherapy and engage users throughout the whole building, not just the therapy rooms or fitness centers. Promoting movement stimulates the mind and body, aiding in the healing process. Ecotherapy includes a wide range of treatment programs which aims to improve mental and physical wellbeing through outdoor activities. Ecotherapy focuses on healing through the healing of the earth. Nature is known to provide healing qualities through immersion or observation. Through combining nature with exercise users recover process towards healing can be stimulated in a multi-sensory.

PARALLEL BARS

STAIRS

Somalia _ 980,000 refugees _ insecurity

Democratic Republic of Congo

SMELL

SOUND

SIGHT

The body and soul co-exist through the experience of architecture. According to Steven Holl, “senses relate to the image of the cosmic body; vision to light, hearing to air, smell to vapor, taste to water, touch to earth.” Architecture can incorporate these senses in a multi-sensory level. The building becomes a place where one can identify themselves, and become a part of the overall communal existence.

PRECEDENT STUDY

RAMP + CURB

FOOT STOOLS

BEYELER FOUNDATION RENZO PIANO

LOUISIANA MUSEUM OF MODERN ART VIHELM WOHLERT

REHAB BASEL HERZOG + DE MEURON

NEUE NATIONALGALERIE MIES VAN DER ROHE

255

SITE PLAN SCALE: 1/32” = 1’

SECTION A SCALE: 1/32” = 1’

256

MAIL + DONATIONS

TELCOM

TRASH

PRIVACY PODS

DANCE STUDIO

FITNESS STUDIO

LAUNDRY LINENS

FULL-BODY

CUSTODIAL

EQUIPMENT STORAGE MEP

STATIONARY STRETCHING

DAYCARE

PERCEPTUAL AWARENESS

ART STUDIO

GROUND FLOOR PLAN SCALE: 1/16” = 1’

SECTION B SCALE: 1/16” = 1’

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CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR SURVIVORS OF TORTURE

VIEW FROM CAFE TO LOBBY

COMMUNITY CONNECTION THROUGH SITE IMPLICATIONS

SITE CIRCULATION

PARTI

Field one through three are primarily used for interdisciplinary research and crop study at the University of California, Berkeley. Field four is used as a community garden. This garden provides the community educational opportunities for hands-on learning of food production, nutrition, and the environment. Field one would be shifted up so the center can be embraced by nature.

ARRIVAL COURTYARD

MEDITATION GARDEN

CENTRAL COURTYARD

MASS VS VOID The facility is divided into four different realms. Each realm has a courtyard that reflects the atmosphere of the area. The central courtyard acts as the community link, bringing the four groups together.

NORTH ELEVATION SCALE: 1/16” = 1’

258

PUBLIC VS PRIVATE PUBLIC SEMI-PUBLIC SEMI-PRIVATE PRIVATE

SCULPTURE

REFLECTION

GARDEN

POND

SPATIAL ORGANIZATION INTERACTING TREATING EXERCISING ADMINISTRATING SUPPORTING

ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES Perception of corridors can physically and psychologically impact users based on walkability. There are three different types of corridors: walking to destination, walking for exercise, and walking for interaction.

VIEW DOWN CIRCUIT TRAUMA

FORMING OF NEIGHBORHOODS

MOVEMENT

SPATIAL TRANSLATION

CIRCUIT

A town-like environment with streets, plazas, neighborhoods and town center is formed. Wayfinding can be done through the smaller more private courtyards.

The circuit acts as a connective system that promotes physical activity throughout the whole building. Dynamic therapeutic spaces branch off for impromptu physical activity.

DAYLIGHT

STRUCTURE

ASSISTING ARCHITECTURE

SECTION C SCALE: 1/16” = 1’

259

CENTRAL COURTYARD BASE FLASHING WEATHER PROOF MEMBRANE STRUCTURAL DECKING WIDE FLANGED BEAM STRUCTURAL TEE BEAM REINFORCED CONCRETE

RUBBER FLOORING _ REDUCES STRAIN ON THE FEET _ SUSTAINS ACTIVITY FROM EXERCISES _ SLIP-RESISTANCE _ ELIMINATES GLARE WITH MATTE FINISH _ PROVIDES TRACTION FOR CIRCULATION _ NOISE CONTROL _ REDUCES FALLS AND INJURIES

WOOD FRAMING UPTURNED EDGE FLASHING ANCHOR BOLT

WOOD _ CONNECTION TO NATURE _ PROVIDES TRACTION FOR CIRCULATION _ DEFINES SPATIAL ZONES _ PROVIDES A WARM AMBIANCE

GRAVEL WATER PROOF MEMBRANE 4” RIGID FOAM INSULATION

WALL SECTION

SECTION D SCALE: 1/16” = 1’

260

CONCRETE

THERAPY ROOM

NATURAL + SYMBOLIC

NATURAL + BUILT

NATURAL + SYMBOLIC

BUILT + SYMBOLIC

CLEANSING + REFLECTING

PLAYFUL SHADOWS

AROMATHERAPY + ECOTHERAPY

DEVELOPING INDEPENDENCE

ARCHITECTURE AS A HEALING ENVIRONMENT Wilbert Gesler describes healing as a multi-dimensional wholeness that integrates the physical, mental, spiritual, and social components. Thus, allowing for a relationship between the mind (ecotherapy) and the body (physiotherapy) to heal as one. Gesler proposes that healing places have four dimensions: natural, built, social, and symbolic. By breaking down these components, framework can be developed to create healing spaces that improve human well-being.

BUILT ENVIRONMENT NATURAL

BUILT

The goal of the built environment is to create a sense of trust and security, affect the senses of the user, pride the building history, and represent symbolic power by the design.

HEALING

SOCIAL

SYMBOLIC

SECTION E SCALE: 1/16” = 1’

261

ORCHARD

SOCIAL + SYMBOLIC

NATURAL + BUILT

NATURAL + SOCIAL

MAKING YOUR MARK

BUILDING CONFIDENCE ON VARIOUS TURFS

WALKWAYS THAT ENCOURAGE SOCIAL INTERACTION

MEDITATIVE EXPERIENCE

SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT

SYMBOLIC ENVIRONMENT

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

The goal of the social environment is to produce equality in social relations, develop a therapeutic community, and allow for social support. Healing in a social environment break down the hierarchies and division between staff and patients’ development.

The goal of the symbolic environment is to create meaning through objects and spaces. This allows healing through the communication of occupants’ thoughts and behaviors.

The goal of the natural environment is to connect the built environment with the landscape through an immersion of nature. Thus, creating places of aesthetic pleasure, remoteness, and beauty.

SOUTH ELEVATION SCALE: 1/16” = 1’

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CHAPTER XI >oasis -- the healing center for survivors of torture blake wilson

Sub-Chapteroasis -- the healing center for survivors of torture >introduction The goal of this research paper is to examine the extent of the project proposal as a healing environment. By looking at the framework of Wilbert Gesler’s Healing Places as well as other evidenced based research, design decisions were made in effort to create a facility that promotes healing. This paper examines those design decisions based on research in order to justify the final project proposal for the California Center for Survivors of Torture as a place of healing.

>general background information _ issue & need for a center Across the world today, political conflicts have caused many people to flee their homelands in search of safer places to live. Many can flee without much trouble, but for some, it is a different story. When political tensions are high, those caught in the crossfire can become victims to torture, horrendous methods used to inflict emotional and physical pain in order to achieve one’s political agenda. One common outcome of torture is that the survivor is left with physical scars and ailments. However, it is the unseen emotional scars of such a traumatic event that are often most damaging and will stay with the survivors as haunting memories of such a terrible time in their lives. The reason torture survivors need a

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facility like this is due to the long term effects torture has on an individual. Some experience physical effects from torture, but the psychological effects can be much greater. Victims live with constant fear, depression and regular panic attacks which can prevent them from caring for themselves or their family (The Center for Victims of Torture). The aims of torture are to “degrade, break the will, terrorize of gain cooperation” of the victim (Goleman). Due to the intense psychological effects of torture, most survivors develop post traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Syptoms can include nightmares, higher stress levels, or intrusive memories of the event. It causes the victim to feel intense fear, helplessness and horror (Hauksson 21). For those lucky enough to physically seek refuge in another country, there is little they can do to seek refuge from the psychological effects left behind from their traumatic experiences. Most victims of torture face moderate to severe PTSD, a symptom that can take a lifetime to overcome. While there may be services to help heal physical wounds, services to help survivors heal from the emotional effects are limited and not widely known of. Aside from that, it can be difficult for survivors to come forward about their experiences for fear of social implications, people judging them for their past or a fear of being found by the people they escaped. Currently

there

are

several

centers

located throughout the United States that specifically seek to help torture survivors. These facilities are limited however due to the unique population that many medical professionals have yet to come to understand as well as limited funding for specialized centers like this. As a result, the number of patients served by these organizations compared to the total number of torture survivors is vastly different. One program, The Center for Survivors of Torture, or the CST, “provides culturally competent services to torture survivors using a client centered approach which is multidisciplinary, holistic, and strengths based” (CST). Between 2012 – 2015, they only served 353 clients. The Center for Victims of Torture (or the CVT), a leading organization that rehabilitates torture survivors, has for over 20 years estimated that 5 – 35% of refugees into the United States were survivors of torture. In recent years however, they have increased their estimates to as high as 44%, equating to a potential 1.3 of the 3 million refugees who have resettled in the US (Partner News). The significant gap between available centers and total number of torture survivors fully supports the need for a facility such as this proposed project.

to be in Alameda County. This is the third county in terms of the number of refugees the county has resettled since 1982, with 6,244 refugee resettlements (CDSS). The site selected for the facility is called the Gill Tract, located in Albany, California. Currently, the site is a plot of land owned by the University of California Berkeley. The 9 acres of university owned land is used as a community farm on the south-eastern portion, the rest used as agricultural research fields for the university. The site used to be much larger, however the university recently sold part of the land that has since been developed for various projects including a grocery store. The site has had some controversy surrounding it and users of the community garden have been outspoken about not losing their farm. As such, the placement of this facility on this land should take into consideration the pre-existing conditions, including the community farm as well as an Ohlone circle located on the south of the site. An effort should be made to preserve as much of the site and its existing conditions as possible.

_ site context The California Center for Survivors of Torture is proposed to be built in the Bay Area of California. The Bay Area has long been a place of diversity and innovation, thus an appropriate location for a facility such as this one that seeks to serve a diverse population group. In regard to refugees and torture survivors in California, since 1982, there have been 504,298 refugees who resettled in California (CDSS). Using the CVT estimate of 44% of refugees experience torture, then there are an estimated 221,891 torture survivors who have resettled in California since 1982. More specific to the site location of the facility, which is proposed

UC Berkeley Research Fields

UC Gil Tract Community Farm

figure 1. site location

267

Aside from site conditions, another thing to consider is transportation to the site. Many of the users of this facility would likely not arrive by car, but instead by some form of public transport. It is important to note that there are several bus stops surrounding the site. With this in mind, there should be a consideration of how people access the building from various sides of the site.

_ description of users This facility aims to serve two main user groups. On one hand, there are the users of the therapy portion specifically geared towards younger children, ages 3-12. The users within this portion will include administrative staff, the children themselves as well as the parents or family members of the children. The other user group of the facility focuses on the community, providing spaces allowing for community involvement and learning which will include classrooms, an event space, and a yoga studio among other services. The users within here may be older generations of refugees, people in the surrounding community, parents of the children in therapy at the center and administrative staff. Child therapy is the main therapy focus due to the lack of facilities geared towards children who have been exposed to the effects of torture. The United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, or the UNVFVT is a program that funds various organizations worldwide that assist victims of torture. In 2015, they provided funding to 184 organizations that helped more than 57,000 victims, of which around 3,995 were under the age of 18 (OHCHR). Also, according to a study done in the International Journal of Social Welfare in 2005, â&#x20AC;&#x153;children from families where at least one parent has experienced torture display psycho-pathological symptoms, such as depressive symptoms, post268

traumatic stress symptoms, somatization and behavioral disorders more often than do children from families where neither of the parents have experienced tortureâ&#x20AC;? (Daud, Skoglund, Rydelius). Not only are children directly tortured, but they are also at a higher risk of developmental issues when they are the child of one or more parents that faced torture. That is why this center seeks to provide a place that allows children to receive the therapy they need in order to learn how to overcome their trauma and be able to continue developing in their adolescent years. A center such as this also has the potential to create a special place within the community. While it aims to serve children, this facility presents a great opportunity to create a center that reaches out to the community to serve as a place of community learning and community involvement. The community functions within would seek to provide a place for people, specifically refugees, to come and take classes, interact with other refugees and gather resources. It would also be a way to draw the surrounding community in to learn about different cultures and the issues different people are faced with around the world. In that sense, the center would become a place of social healing, a place in which people learn from one another, share stories and create a bond amongst the community members.

>choice of therapeutic treatment The choice of therapeutic treatment within this facility aligns closely with the two major functions within the facility, play therapy and community services. The main therapeutic treatment focuses on children through the use of play therapy. The secondary therapeutic treatment is related to the community functions through the implementation of social therapy. Play therapy was chosen because play is the most important way that

children make sense of their world, it is a way for them to make sense of the past, present and future (Cattanach). Through play, children embody, project and enact metaphors and the discovery of symbols that help make sense of their world (Cattanach). Play therapy encompasses several aspects including play with various types of toys, through art, drama and through texture play involving sand, water and toys. A deeper exploration of what play therapy encompasses and how it can lead to a healing place will be discussed later. On the other end, the social therapy is an important aspect of the center. The creation of a facility such as this serves as an incredible opportunity for community involvement and awareness to refugees and survivors of torture. The center could serve as a place, where through community involvement and social interaction, people can heal together, whether they are torture survivors or just people within the community. This idea of healing through community is called social therapy. The idea behind this therapy lies within the idea that when people come together to talk through their struggles, it creates a sense of empowerment amongst individuals and across the whole group. It then helps to create a stronger bond among people, in turn helping benefit the idea of the community functions as something that can bring people together to learn, to be empowered and to connect. “A socially-oriented model of healing is: first, an experience of sociality which is at the crux of re-creating a social world. The act of sociality requires refugees to both individually and collectively engage with the practical world - connecting, patterning, structuring, innovating and re-constructing their social body. It also requires other actors such as government, community agencies and citizens to socially engage with refugee groups” (Westoby). This embodies the idea behind

the community function, that not only can it be a place for people to “re-create their social world”, but also a place for citizens and community members to engage with populations of refugees v

figure 2. facility functions

>vision for the center _ vision statement While the two functions of the center are very different, they both focus on the same ideas. The three main words that these functions encompass are: “Connect, Learn, Empower.”

figure 3. vision statement

269

The center focuses on these three concepts: enhancing and facilitating learning; empowering people to overcome their past; and creating bridges that connect all ages, ethnicities and cultures. The first aspect of connecting is about getting torture survivors the help they need, but also allowing this center to be a place of diversity where people from all walks of life come together in unity. Secondly, the center hopes to allow people to learn, whether it be about themselves and their trauma, or about refugees and how to help. Leaving the center, one should feel as though they learned something about themselves or someone else. Lastly, the idea of empowerment is one of the most important. This center should be a place where people come, seeking to overcome their past, to heal from their trauma and feel empowered to become a better and stronger person because of it.

_ architectural idea As this project has progressed and developed, the architectural idea transformed into an ‘oasis’. There are several reasons for this, the first lying within the definition of the word. The Oxford dictionary defines an oasis as, “a pleasant or peaceful area or period in the midst of a difficult, troubled or hectic place or situation” (Oxford Dictionary). This is exactly what the facility aims to be, a

figure 4. translation of an oasis into a building

270

place in which people can come and find peace amongst unrest. The idea is that outside of the facility is like a desert, a harsh environment that is hazardous and draining. The facility, however, would serve as an oasis, a place of refuge, safe haven, restoration and rejuvenation. This would be sought to be done both metaphorically as well as physically. Metaphorically, the center serves as a place of peace away from unrest, but also in the fact that within deserts, communities and villages would likely be found near an oasis. Often times these communities were nomadic tribes, travelling from place to place, similarly to the refugees the center would serve who are seeking a place away from home. This would be that home for the refugees, a place to feel welcomed, safe and restored. The way in which the center physically becomes as oasis is through the two main components of an oasis; water and vegetation. Both of these aspects are found in an oasis, the vegetation is able to exist because of the water, and people can survive because of the water and vegetation. This idea will translate into the building, that the water and vegetation become the life source within the center. The reason for this is that it reinforces the idea of what an oasis is, but it also ties into Gesler’s framework of healing environments.

>healing spaces: an interpretation of geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work _ summary of geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ideas as framework for a healing space Wilbert Geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book Healing Places is an exploration into his argument that place has a direct impact on health and human well-being. He argues that a place that promotes healing should do so through more than just the functions inside, but through the design of the place and the spaces within. Gesler presents four environments of a healing place; the built, natural, social and symbolic environments. Each of the environments play an integral part in healing through their integration and dependence on one another. These environments should be seen at multiple scales within a place, from the large site scale down to the details, these environments achieve healing qualities when integrated at multiple levels and coincide with one another.

_ built environment This first environment focuses on the physical aspects of the building and how users experience a place because of it. Gesler suggests that this environment encompasses a sense of trust and security, it affects the senses, creates a pride in building history and can have a symbolic power through design (Gesler). In the design for the center, the built environment was embodied in many aspects. At the site scale, the design sought to create a place that felt safe and secure. While the center still wants to engage the public, it also wants to make the people inside feel safe. This lead to the decision to pull the entry off the street and tucked away in a courtyard. This gives a sense of security to those entering, that they cannot be seen as easily entering

figure 5. entry courtyard

the facility and as they leave they are not immediately faced with the public, instead they are brought through a progression through a courtyard and a walk along a colonnade of trees before they are gradually reintroduced to the public realm of Jackson street. Within the building this idea is further carried through the form, separating the more public functions from the therapy spaces, which are placed on a separate floor of their own. The exterior space on the second floor also aids in this security as it is private as well as surrounded by an exterior screen system that acts as an edge condition. The screen is made of spaced vertical wood members that allow for privacy but also for a degree of transparency. Also at the site scale is the idea of creating a center that people can claim as their own. As part of it serves as a community center, the facility would hopefully be a place that people call their own, a place they look forward to visiting. Another aspect of this is the gallery, a space dedicated to works of art created at the center or by the community. The idea of this is to allow people to leave behind their mark, displaying something they are proud of and becoming a part of the center through that work even after they may have left the center. The last aspect of the built environment incorporated into the design is the invoking of the senses, primarily vision and touch, especially in the areas the children would experience. The idea behind this is that children are very exploratory, they are constantly analyzing their environment 271

with their eyes and through touching. In relation to vision, the organization of spaces allows for children, as well as all visitors to constantly see throughout not only the center itself, but beyond into the landscape as well. This relates back to the idea of security as they are always aware of their surroundings and can see where they are going at all times. Touch appears in two main spaces, the exterior spaces where there are plants and kids are able to run their hands through various types of vegetation as well as potentially smell them. Inside along the hallway of the play therapy rooms is a wall made up of spaced wood slats at the height of children, so as they walk along the hallway they can feel the texture of the wood and the pattern of the spacing. Visually it also creates a soothing rhythm as they walk down the hallway, revealing the colored wall behind the slats. This was done to allow for a brightening of the space with colors without being overbearing as the slats subdue the color unless you are mostly perpendicular to the wall.

_ natural environment Most people would agree that nature has healing powers, and Gesler states that â&#x20AC;&#x153;many people feel that they can attain physical, mental and spiritual healing simply by spending time out-of-doors or seeking out remote or isolated places where they can get away from it allâ&#x20AC;? (Gesler). The natural environment within the design of this center is one of the most important, as it most closely relates to the idea of an oasis. At a site scale, the entire facility acts as an oasis. Vegetation including trees and various types of plants surround the center, creating a symbolic representation of an oasis as well as aesthetic pleasure for those utilizing the center of those simply passing by. The building becomes immersed in nature and itself acts as the 272

figure 6. floor plan depicting oasis

water in the oasis, it is the source of life at the oasis. The placement of the facility also relates to the natural environment. The form runs east to west into the site towards the center and away from the street. This relates to this idea of remoteness, that the places where therapy takes place is pushed further from the street and into the site. At the building scale, the elements of vegetation and water continue. The building has 3 courtyards, two enclosed and one open that serves as the entry. Within these courtyards, they allow light into the spaces, but they are also filled with vegetation and act as secure exterior spaces for people to sit in, relating again to this idea of immersion within nature. The entry courtyard, visitors pass by vegetation and cross over water. Water is one of the most important elements of the natural environment as it not only cleanses the body, it cleanses the soul (Gesler). The larger reflecting pond has a fountain in it that generates a calming sound as well as a ripple in the water. This entry sequence plays an important symbolic role that will be discussed later.

On the second floor where play therapy takes places, the large exterior play space becomes a discovery zone for children. Surrounded by greenery and the natural elements of the wood screen, children are immersed in a vibrant natural space. Within each play therapy room, there is a small private outdoor terrace that serves as a small outdoor play space as well as a reflective area. Within this terrace there is vegetation and a small moving water feature in order to create a calming and peaceful environment. They also have views beyond the facility to the exterior landscape which is filled with trees and vegetation. Almost everywhere they go or look, they are surrounded by nature.

_ social environment This environment largely relates to the more community oriented spaces. Gesler claims that healing is a social activity that involves interaction among people who play various social roles, and that good social relationships are essential to healing in terms of a therapeutic community (Gesler). One aspect incorporated in the design that Gesler mentions is equality in social relations. Through the layout of spaces, both administration and community features organized around two interior courtyards, there creates an equality between social dynamics between staff and visitors. There is no ‘us versus them’ mentality, rather everyone is collected together under one roof, occupying much of the same space as one another. Even the play therapy on the second floor relates back to the functions on the ground floor through these courtyards again. From the exterior play space, users can see into the courtyards as well as the spaces below, allowing physical separation but connectedness through visual relations. Of the social aspects that Gesler mentions,

two of the most important are the ideas of therapeutic community and social support. Much of the idea behind the community functions are those aspects. The center seeks to be a place that allows for therapeutic community and social support. This is done through the spaces within, facilitating large gathering spaces for people to meet and connect, but also throughout the interior and exterior where smaller spaces are created that allow people to meet in smaller more intimate groups. Spaces along the main circulation path and around the courtyards allow for potential spontaneous social interaction where users can step aside and have more intimate interactions while still being a part of the larger whole.

_ symbolic environment The symbolic environment is perhaps one of the more elaborate and harder to grasp of the environments, however it is equally important. This environment focuses on meaning, on abstract ideas and beliefs. “One cannot understand fully a person’s reactions to an environment unless one recognizes that there are cognitive or symbolic mediators between stimulus and response (Gesler). In essence, the entire center acts as a symbol. The encompassing idea of an oasis is symbolic, that the center can become a place of refuge, restoration and healing. While there are physically representations of an oasis such as the elements of water and vegetation, they have a deeper symbolic meaning in their use. For example, in the entry courtyard, visitors must cross over a low laying plane of water. By crossing this threshold, they are “entering the oasis”. But it goes even deeper than that, in that they are entering into this water, a life source and place of healing. It can be easily missed; however, it is a symbolic gesture meant to represent 273

cleansing both of the mind and the soul. Also in the entry sequence is a moving water feature. While the sound and visual pleasure achieved from this can be soothing and healing, it is also symbolic in that the flow of water is constant and can serve as a reminder that this center can be a place of constant cleansing and healing for those who come here. This idea is carried inside, in the play therapy rooms. The threshold to the rooms which is the doorway, is a blue color, representing water. As you enter the room, the walls are a very muted blue and wood. The symbolism here is that when you enter the play therapy room, you are entering into the oasis, a place of healing. Seen around the entire building is a screen made of vertical wood elements that serve many practical purposes such as shading, privacy and a play on shadows, they also serve a symbolic purpose. As they are made of wood, they relate to the natural environment and the built, but in the symbolic environment they represent trees wrapping and even supporting the center. It furthers the notion of vegetation and nature surrounding the center. One last symbolic element is the library, which sits between the two interior courtyards right in the middle of the center. The library encompasses all aspects of the vision statement, connecting, learning and empowering. It is fitting that this space which embodies the vision of the center sits between two natural courtyards, right in the middle of the center. It allows for people to connect with one another, learn about torture or refugees and be empowered through the learning, connecting or the close proximity to the two courtyards.

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>introduction to the research question This section will look at three researchable questions pertaining to the project. The goal of these questions is to find answers and evidence that can lead to design decisions within the project. By using evidence based claims, choices in regard to the design can be justified and backed by the research. The three questions relate to nature, play therapy and healing through community. Each question will relate back to at least one of the three parts of the vision statement as well as Geslerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work in order to tie everything together into one cohesive project.

figure 7. 4. nature as healing

figure 8. courtyard precedent study

>research question #1 -- does nature increase the healing of users?

discusses many aspects of gardens that contribute to healing and well-being. York focuses on various elements and the guidelines for implementing these various elements into a design in order to create a healing space. She believes that “gardens have the potential to satisfy nine basic human needs (subsistence, protection, affection, understanding, participation, leisure, creation, identity and freedom) across four existential states (being, having, doing and interacting)” (York). These needs and existential states tie in well to the idea of the center.

_ goal of the question To investigate if nature increases healing, and if so, how it does so in order to find evidence to support design decisions. Much of this section relates back to Gesler’s natural environment as well.

_ research of the question The first source examined is an article published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2016. The article, titled Physiological Effects of Nature Therapy: A Review of Research in Japan, examines 52 studies conducted in Japan about nature therapy in the last 20 years. This article defines nature therapy as “a set of practices aimed at achieving ‘preventive medical effects’ through exposure to natural stimuli that render a state of physiological relaxation and boost the weakened immune functions to prevent diseases” (Tchounwou). While much of this article focuses on Evidence Based Medicine, it has several insights on nature therapy, or exposure to nature which can lead to potential design decisions. The second source is a book by Karen York titled The Holistic Garden: Creating Spaces for Health and Healing. In this book, York

_ application of research to design In Tchounwou’s report, a study of forest therapy, which is essentially a full immersion in nature concluded that viewing or walking around a forest environment for a 15-minute session of forest therapy induced a state of physiological relaxation (Tchounwou). This closely relates to Gesler’s natural environment where he mentions that people can obtain healing by spending time outside in remote or isolated places (Gesler). While an oasis differs from a forest, the idea of both being a place of remoteness and isolation is evident. This information was used to inform and also justify the outdoor spaces, specifically the courtyards and outdoor terrace. These places, especially the two interior courtyards and the terrace are places 275

figure 9.wooden screen on facade

people can go to be immersed in nature to get away from life’s ‘desert’. These spaces are designed with the intent for people to just sit and reflect in or to wander around in the larger outdoor areas experiencing the different immersive elements. Another study that reinforces the design decisions behind the outdoor spaces looks at urban green space theory. This study examined having access to green spaces in urban areas both visually and physically. It found that those who had access to green space in urban areas showed decreased heart rates which lead to psychological relaxation compared to those who did not have access to green areas (Tchounwou). While the courtyards help achieve this, it is also the landscaping elements throughout the site that support this idea, that anywhere users look, there is nature all around. Another interesting study examined was wooden material therapy, which examined both the visual and tactile effects of having natural wood in spaces. The visual portion determined that rooms containing 30% wood reduced pulse rate and blood pressure when participants looked at a wall for 90 seconds indicating that these rooms have visually calming effects. However, when that percentage increased to 45%, pulse rate increased (Tchounwou). In the tactile study, participants who came in contact with cedar, cyprus or oak materials felt no physiological stress, even if the wood was heated or cooled, compared to stress inducing metal and 276

acrylic materials (Tchounwou). This aspect came in multiple levels in the design, though not directly calculated at 30%, the amount of wood was considered. The screen around the building serves many purposes, one of them being a relaxing material, both to look at and to touch. This becomes especially apparent in the exterior play space and in the play therapy areas. The screen becomes the barrier around the terrace, serving as a soft and semitransparent protective border. Inside, the hallway mixes visual and tactile uses of wood, much of which was mentioned in relation to Gesler’s built environment. In the conclusion of the article, Tchounwou suggests that “the therapeutic effects of natural stimulation suggest a simple, accessible, and cost-effective method to improve the quality of life and health of modern people” (Tchounwou). The use of wood throughout various parts of the design took this into consideration. That wood is a material that can be locally sourced, and is a simple and cost-effective way to improve well-being and health at the center. In York’s book, she lists out several elements of a healing garden design, claiming that a garden needs enclosure for a sense of security and privacy (York). While many of the exterior spaces of the center are not considered gardens, they are similar in nature. The main elements focused on are an inviting entry, enclosure, a sense of mystery, places for one or more than one and lastly, water and lush healthy plantings.

The first of these is an inviting entry. York suggests marking a threshold which offers a peek into the garden and giving a sense of moving into another world (York). This is the first impression of the space. In the design of the center, the entry courtyard has two features marking the threshold. The overhead threshold of the trellis marks a physical plane, but the water below acts as a plane on the ground that symbolically marks the entry into the ‘oasis’. The enclosure element implemented in the center is most evident in the courtyards and the exterior terrace. In the courtyards, they are enclosed from the exterior and protected by being surrounded by the building. The exterior terrace is enclosed by the vertical wood members that create a sense of security as well as privacy without being fully enclosed. The entire terrace is divided into multiple parts, creating spaces throughout to allow for smaller havens within the larger natural space.

figure 10. sketch of entry sequence

are the elements in which our lives depend on, and when in balance, a harmony is created that we recognize and respond to. Rather than an escape from reality, it is an escape to reality (York). This is what the center should be, not an escape from reality, but a place that helps people recognize reality. The entry courtyard is meant to appear almost overflowing with life through vegetation and water, representing that this place is a place where life can flourish.

A sense of mystery is created in order to “draw you in, stimulate and involve you in the garden” (York). This is carried out in the center’s design in the entry courtyard and the exterior terrace. The entry is off axis with the street, creating a sense of a journey to get into the center. The entry is hidden but you can see glimpses of it and the sound of the water draws visitors towards it. In the terrace, the varied spaces divided by plants create a sense of mystery and discovery as the kids have to explore around the natural elements to discover new places. York argues that gardens should have room for solitude as well as places to be social (York.) This is mainly seen again in the exterior terrace as there are places for large groups, small groups and individuals. Just like an oasis, York says that thriving plants bathed in light with a pond close by 277

figure 11. child at play

figure 12. exterior terrace

>research question #2 -- do children learn & heal through play?

the learning and empowering.

_ goal of the question To investigate if children learn and specifically heal through play. If so, how? This section will also investigate potential design requirements for the spaces based on evidence as well as requirements for these types of spaces.

_ research of the question The first source to research this is a book by Ann Cattanach titled Play Therapy with Abused Children. While this book doesn’t directly address play therapy with adolescent survivors of torture, both groups share similarities in terms of the effects of each of their situations. Play therapy was chosen as the main therapeutic treatment because of children’s ability to express emotion play that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to express with words. Cattanach says that “it is by playing and only in playing that the individual child is able to be creative and to use the whole personality and it is only in being creative that the individual discovers the self” (Cattanach). She also mentions that play is a journey of self-discovery for the child, a way of making sense of the past, the present and the future (Cattanach). This relates to the vision statement, especially 278

The second source is The Healing Power of Play: Working with Abused Children by Eliana Gil. Throughout this book, Gil examines play therapy and how it has been used through several case studies with children who have suffered various types of abuse such as physical, emotional and sexual abuse. While she doesn’t mention victims of torture, many of these types of abuse are common among child torture victims and therefore the study is relatable.

_ application of research to design Ann Cattanach’s claims that two areas of space are defined when a child plays: the physical place and the psychic space developed. She goes on to say that a place to play must be safe enough to the child and establish physical boundaries free of disruptions from the outside world. She suggests that the space offers few constraints, allowing for many possibilities through the use of seclusion, actual boundaries and approachability (Cattanach). In another book, it mentions that play spaces should have multiple zones, allowing for different areas and types of play. In the play therapy rooms, they are divided into three distinct zones. The reason for this was based on the above research. The

different parts allow for different types of activities to occur, both inside and outside. These spaces are differentiated by the architectural elements of wall and ceiling planes, creating multiple spaces within a larger space. Each zone has the ability to be secluded from the others, or open to them depending on the needs of the child. They mention the use of flooring materials such as cork tile for the floor and to avoid vibrant and bright colors in the therapy spaces. This was implemented in the design by choosing cork tile flooring, a material that has many benefits. It is easy to clean, has acoustic and thermal properties, it is easy to install and replace if necessary and it meets several LEED criteria. As it is made up of natural materials, it also increases the natural elements experienced in the room. The color of the rooms was also considered, going with a very light and muted blue that brings a touch of color to the space while not being overly bright and overpowering to the senses. It also symbolically represents water, and relates to the notion of the water in an oasis as the source of life, the element that brings life and restoration to the desert. Within the therapy room, the user symbolically is surrounded by the oasis through the colors, materials as well as the natural vegetation outside.

figure 13. places for social interaction study

figure 14. idea of diverse cultural connectedness

>research question #3 -- can community & social interaction be a healing factor? _ goal of the question To investigate if facilitating socialness can be healing. If so, how? The reasoning for this question is to support the inclusion of community functions within the facility as well as look at considerations for creating various spaces within the building that allow for differing degrees of social interaction.

_ research of the question Healing Design: A Phenomenological Approach to the Relation of the Physical Setting to Positive Social Interaction in Pediatric Intensive Care Units in the United States and Turkey is a dissertation by Hilal Ozcan, a Doctorate student of Philosophy at Texas A&M University. His extensive report studied the â&#x20AC;&#x153;relationship between healing and its embodiment opportunities in architectural design. It puts forward a method for identifying some key architectural variables which may be measured for their sensitivity toward healing designâ&#x20AC;? (Ozcan). The findings helped in some of the design 279

decisions relating to the center’s social considerations. The second main source studied was a report by Peter Westoby titled The Sociality of Refugee Healing. The aim of the report was “to enhance people’s understanding of healing so that better policies and programs to support refugee resettlement can be developed and to understand healing is a social process in this context” (Westoby).

_ application of research to design While not directly related to design, one thing Ozcan mentions emphasizes the goal of the community features within the center. He says that “in addition to healing interventions through positive social interaction, love, stress reduction and relaxation, the cross-cultural analysis revealed appreciation of cultural diversity might have healing potential” (Ozcan). The center aims to be a place of diversity, and through that hopefully can become healing in the interaction of diverse groups. Ozcan also mentions several architectural solutions for healthcare spaces to promote healing through social interaction. Of these, the main solutions that were implemented into the design are as follows: providing spaces for families to have a more active role in the healing process, families’ dual need for privacy and interaction, increased social interactions and places for staff to take breaks. While these were more focused at hospitals, they still have applications in a center such as this. The first solution of providing families a more active role in the healing process comes through the library, which acts as a resource center with Internet access, books and places to learn. Here, family members can learn from various resources or staff how to better be active in the healing 280

process of their child. This space also serves a similar purpose for community members, in that they can learn about refugees and torture in order to become more active activists in the matter. Since there are different users in this one space, it leads into the next solution of increased social interaction. Interaction between various user groups can occur in the library, as well as various other social spaces located throughout. In these areas, families can offer support to one another and it encourages interaction between people, relating back to the vision of connecting people in this center. While social interaction is encouraged, it is also understood that some family members would want privacy and seclusion in these waiting areas. Both in the interior and exterior waiting areas, there are spaces that allow for alternative and flexible settings. Movable furniture can be arranged to encourage personalized group or individual settings, and more permanent and isolated fixtures allow users to isolate themselves if desired. Movable furniture would be implemented because “heavy or unmovable furniture inhibits social interaction, while comfortable and movable furniture arranged in small, flexible groups can facilitate it” (Ozcan). The last solution focuses on places for staff members to take breaks. A staff lounge with nature views and other consciously chosen amenities allow for effective relaxation (Ozcan). There is a dedicated staff lounge located at the end of the facility, allowing for isolation and privacy as well as plenty of natural views to the exterior and the rest of the site. This is also a space where all staff members can gather together. There are also the courtyards that can be utilized as more public places of rest and relaxation. These courtyards allow for a full immersion in nature, sitting amidst vegetation and seeing the sky above, while still being able

to see throughout the interior. Looking at Peter Westoby’s report, the aspects drawn from it to inform the design mainly focused on the impact of socialness in healing. Westoby suggests several ideas that can help in this. One is to bring refugees together on a regular basis as this simple gesture is fundamental to community building (Ozcan). This would be implemented through the classrooms and event space that allow for all types of events to be hosted where refugees can gather together in order to build community. Another idea is to facilitate a link between refugees and people from the community. This idea relates to the aim of the center being a place where everyone can come together. Another idea that Ozcan presents is allowing for intergenerational dialogue. This idea helps confirm that a community center and a center for play therapy can coexist in one place. Through this intergenerational dialogue, children can learn to trust adults and adults can feel a sense of accomplishment in being supportive of the children. Perhaps the most important idea he presents is the last one, which facilitates ‘togetherness’. Ozcan suggests that it should be “a priority to facilitate opportunities for people to share stories of change, suffering and loss, not in a therapeutic way of a ‘removing the pain’ but instead through social opportunities to acknowledge another’s pain, bear witness to people’s stories and ‘share the pain’” (Ozcan). While the community functions aim to be therapeutic, there is a reason that no specific therapy takes place within these spaces. Instead, both the large and smaller social spaces seek to facilitate social interaction in which people can discuss with one another their struggles and empower one another through this social interaction. The hope is that these spaces become areas of social healing through the empowering of individuals as

they connect with other people. This really encompasses Gesler’s environments, particularly the built, the natural and the social environments. All of these environments work together to help create a place of healing.

>conclusion

The center seeks to enhance and facilitate learning; empower people to overcome their past; and create bridges that connect all ages, ethnicities and cultures. It also seeks to be a pleasant or peaceful area or period in the midst of a difficult, troubled or hectic place or situation, an Oasis. From the site scale down to the details, many design decisions were made based on literature review and the framework of Wilbert Gesler. Nature, play and social interaction all play a critical role in the healing process within the center. Through many specific decisions were made to support healing. In the end, the facility as a whole is a symbolic oasis, fusing both the built and the natural to facilitate a social atmosphere. The center is not only healing through the functions that take place inside, but also through the architecture and design which become healing elements themselves.

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bibliography

chapter XI

TEXT -Center for Victims of Torture. ww. cvt.org. Accessed 27 Aug 2016. “Project History”

United Nations Human Rights. ohchr.org. 6 April 2016. Website. 2 May 2017.

Cattanach, Ann. Play Therapy with Abused Children. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers Ltd, 1992. Print.

Westoby, Peter. The Sociality of Refugee Healing. Australia: Common Ground Publishing Pty Ltd, 2009. PDF.

CDSS. “Total arrivals to California counties by country of origin.” Data Report. 2016. PDF. —. “Total refugee arrivals to california by country of origin.” Data Report. 2016. PDF. Center for Survivors of Torture. cst.aaci.org. n.d. Website. 2 May 2017. Daud, Atia, Erling Skoglund and Per-Anders Rydelius. “Children in families of torture victims: transgenerational transmission of parents’ traumatic experiences to their children.” International Journal of Social Welfare (2005): 23-32. PDF. Gesler, Wilbert. Healing Places. Lanham, Maryland: Rowman & Littlefield, 2003. Print. Goleman, Daniel. 25 April 1989. http://www. nytimes.com/1989/04/25/science/grim-specialtyemerges-as-therapists-treat-victims-of-torture. html?pagewanted+all. 26 August 2016. Hauksson, Petur. n.d. http://www.cpt.coe.int/en/ working-documents/cpt-2003-91-eng. Digital. 26 Aug 2016. Oxford Dictionary. Oxford Dictionary. 2017. 16 March 2017. Ozcan, Hilal. Healing Design: A Phenomenological Approach to the Relation of the Physical Setting to Positive Social Interaction in Pediatric Intensive Care Units in the United States and Turkey . PhD Dissertation. College Station: Texas A&M University, 2004. PDF. Partner News. Nationalities Service Center. 14 October 2015. Web. 10 April 2017. Tchounwou, Paul B. “Physiological Effects of Nature Therapy: A Review of the Research in Japan.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2016). PDF.

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York, Karen. The Holistic Garden: Creating Spaces for Health and Healing. Ontario: Pearson PTR, 2001. Print. figure 1. Wilson, Blake. “site location”. Kansas State University. Oasis: The Healing Center for Survivors of Torture. Manhattan, KS. 2016. Sketch. figure 2. Wilson, Blake. “facility functions”. Kansas State University. Oasis: The Healing Center for Survivors of Torture. Manhattan, KS. 2016. Sketch. figure 3. Wilson, Blake. “vision statement”. Kansas State University. Oasis: The Healing Center for Survivors of Torture. Manhattan, KS. 2016. Sketch. figure 4. Wilson, Blake. “translation of an oasis into a building”. Kansas State University. Oasis: The Healing Center for Survivors of Torture. Manhattan, KS. 2016. Sketch. figure 5. Wilson, Blake. “entry courtyard”. Kansas State University. Oasis: The Healing Center for Survivors of Torture. Manhattan, KS. 2016. Sketch. figure 6. Wilson, Blake. “floor plan depicting oasis”. Kansas State University. Oasis: The Healing Center for Survivors of Torture. Manhattan, KS. 2016. Sketch.

IMAGERY -figure 7. http://www.wellnesswolverine.com/home/ how-to-develop-unbreakable-confidence. Nature as Healing. Photograph, figure 8. Geron, Amit. Courtyard Precedent Study. 2014, Photograph, ArchDaily

figure 9. Wilson, Blake. “wooden screen on facade”. Kansas State University. Oasis: The Healing Center for Survivors of Torture. Manhattan, KS. 2016. Sketch. figure 10. Wilson, Blake. “sketch of entry courtyard”. Kansas State University. Oasis: The Healing Center for Survivors of Torture. Manhattan, KS. 2016. Sketch. figure 11. https://www.stayathomemum.com.au/ my-kids/activities/messy-play/. Child at play. Photograph figure 12. Wilson, Blake. “exterior terrace”. Kansas State University. Oasis: The Healing Center for Survivors of Torture. Manhattan, KS. 2016. Sketch. figure 13. CREO ARKIITEKTER & WE Architecture. places for social interaction study. 2014, Photograph, ArchDaily figure 14. http://www.hermantown.k12.mn.us/ content/school-social-worker-district-wide-pk-12th. Idea of diverse cultural connectedness. Photograph.

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THANK YOU!

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>thank you susanne You have inspired and challenged each of us in a unique way throughout the past two semesters. Whether it was the initial program statement, watching documentaries on torture, or heated desk crits, we all appreciate you and your time greatly! With Much Respect,

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