destress - a place to prevent and treat stress

Abstract

Stress is a growing problem in our society and most severe amongst young people. Almost 30% of young swedes describe that they feel stressed. Many people experience stress that affects their daily life in a negative way. The project’s aim is to design a center for destress. I want to investigate if it is possible to reduce and treat high stress levels by creating a space dedicated to the senses and creativity. The building will be used both in order to prevent stress but also to treat stress related illnesses once they have occurred. The spaces are simple in design, yet impact wellbeing and mood. The center will be using a combination of different treatment methods, such as therapy, meditation and stimulus of different senses, for a broader treatment. The surroundings is inspired by the already existing “green rehab” where the nature and so called biophilic design is used for its healing power. This master’s thesis project is based on the method of research for- and by design. I will use literature studies as my method but also investigate examples of so called ”best practice” where I look at existing architecture project that deals with the same questions. I will try to investigate how materials, daylight, atmospheres and nature can help to reduce stress. At the same time as I’m doing the research I will develop my design proposal through sketches and models. Research questions: How can design elements, in the shape of a building, be used in order to reduce and treat stress? How can architecture, through a stimulation of the senses, affect the mental and physical state of its users?