Dwellbeing; residential architecture for mental health

Abstract

In this stressful world, one might look to architecture for answers on better mental health. Research shows that we spend about 90% of our time indoors and almost 19 hours a day in our homes. The new building regulations from Boverket are a big threat to the residential qualities we have taken for granted. Along with the strained Swedish healthcare system and the fact that an increased amount of people are suffering from mental illness - this constituted the thesis’ background. The aim was to explore how architects can enhance building qualities related to residential architecture for the sake of people’s mental health, emphasizing on stress-regulation. The research questions were 1) What architectural concepts can be identified in residential architecture that promote good mental health through stress regulation, based on relevant theories? 2) How can these concepts be sustainably applied in a housing project on the site of Tuvesvik? 2B) In order to illustrate generalizability, how can the same concepts be used in a housing project in Högsbo - an urban site? The theories used were interdisciplinary; the residential aspect of enriched environments, the importance of the outdoors, the perceived sensory dimensions along with support of other relevant research in residential qualities. Methods used were; a literature overview highlighting important research, an extensive case study, and research through design. Two design projects were carried out - a main one in a rural context (Tuvesvik) and another one in an urban context (Högsbo). Results generated six design concepts for residential architecture for mental health; directional diversity, transitions, zones of social and private, context sensitivity, individuality, and control and safety. Two research-informed design proposals were conducted to embody previous mentioned design concepts. On Tuvesvik, this resulted in eight semi-detached houses and in Högsbo this meant terraced housing (16 dwellings in each). The thesis showed how design concepts for mental health in residential architecture can be used also in future projects, due to their general and applicable nature. The overall implications are relevant not only because they address the societal problems with mental illness - but also because it amplifies residential qualities in the light of recent threats. However, the findings must be further supported to be fully generalizable.