A place to grow; group accommodation for children with autism spectrum disorder
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Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Modellbyggare
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Sammanfattning
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
live in group accommodations for various
reasons when it is deemed to be the best
solution for them and their needs. The home
environment is especially important for these
children because of their tendency to be hyperor
hypo-sensitive to sensory impressions and
the need for a safe and structured environment.
Children living in these accommodations usually
have complex needs, such as challenging
behaviours, that can be exacerbated by
an environment that is not suited for them
(Socialstyrelsen, 2020).
This master’s thesis aims to investigate
how architecture can promote the wellbeing
of children with ASD living in group
accommodations. Furthermore, it investigates
how these accommodations can be homelike
and connect residents to nature. The thesis
is in collaboration with Betaniahemmet, an
organisation in Gothenburg municipality, and
the aim is also to provide them with information
and strategies that they can use in future
projects.
The research was conducted using a literature
study, study visits, and interviews with staff,
parents, and experts on group accommodations
for children and ASD. The gathered information
was then analysed and formulated into design
strategies, a spatial program and spatial
organisation that were implemented in the
design of a group accommodation.
The theory is based on literature about ASD,
group accommodations for children and adults
with disabilities, therapeutic spaces, homelike
spaces, and connecting residents to nature.
The results suggest that well-being can be
promoted by designing an accommodation
that suits the residents’ specific needs regarding
hyper- or hypo-sensitivities, perception and
navigation in the building, difficulties meeting
others, safety, and privacy. A homelike feeling is
created primarily by providing residents with a
private space that they have control over and
by choosing familiar materials to the extent that
it is possible. To connect residents to nature, it
is perhaps most important to provide a garden
with various activities and create the possibility
of having views and daylight in the building.
It is, however, important that these forms of
stimulation from the environment can be
screened off
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Autism spectrum disorder | well-being | homelike | connection to nature