ABSTRACT OF PAPER PRESENTED IN SYMPOSIUMS AND CONFERENCES AND PUBLISHED IN JOURNALS 1990-2001

 
 

FROM HEALTHY BUILDINGS TO HEALING BUILDINGS
 

Dr Ruzica Bozovic-Stamenovic1, Dr Ong Boon Lay2 & Ismail Said3

1 Assistant professor, Department of Architecture, National University of Singapore
2 Senior lecturer, Department of Architecture, National University of Singapore
3Associate professor, Department of Landscape Architecture, University Technology of Malaysia

This paper will be presented at Healthy Buildings 2003 Conference July 13-17, 2003 at National University of Singapore.

ABSTRACT

A new paradigm for healthcare design is needed. Usually designed for efficiency and cleanliness, healthcare spaces need to accommodate the notion of eustress (or positive stress) as a significant contributor to healing. The engagement of senses is essential in facilitating the transition from healthy buildings to healing environments. This paper reviews current research and presents original findings by the authors. Sensory stimulation design is proposed as an amalgam of innovative design solutions related to spatial cognition. Guidelines are discussed and illustrated by some original solutions. Special consideration is given to healing landscapes. These landscapes arouse positive feelings towards the healthcare settings and foster the restorative or healing process.  A case study of therapeutic gardens in recuperation of acutely ill children in two nucleus hospitals in Malaysia is presented.

Keywords: healthy buildings, healing, eustress, landscape, architecture, sensory stimulation design