Some researchers claim that the modern landscape of psychiatric treatment is mechanized to approach healing of the patients through the form the chemical treatment (Rhi, 2001). This method does not prove to be efficient for every patient, leaving them in a burdening psychological state. Elements such as holistic practices and spiritual rituals can offer an alternative which is patient-centered, and addresses the patient as a whole (CAN ÖZ & DURAN, 2021). Psychiatric facilities often neglect the need of the user in relation to the healing space. The approach in this field of architecture is often staff-centered, focused on control and safety, but often lacks the qualities that are associated with a holistic view of healing (Connellan et al., 2013). In order to understand and analyze the positive effect that buildings can have onto the patient, case studies, interviews, visits and reference reviews were conducted, which were summarized into design themes that serve as a basic framework for creating spiritual and healing environments. The design themes matrix outlines the qualities of architectural spaces on three different scales, representing the experience and feelings of each location. The most common features were elements such as minimalist, synthetic spaces, emphasized by either monochrome or complementary color schemes, are orchestrated through light and darkness. Thus, immersing the user into the architectural space opens them towards the possibility of experiencing a mystical experience. ... Read more

Architecture can be justified by a multitude of requirements, whether that means functional, aesthetic or other design attributes. Nonetheless, whether it is by consequence or a conscious decision, architecture influences us in ways we are often not aware of. We feel it, but cannot always point out ex-actly the intangible elements that impact our perception of architecture. My interest lies in the technique and thought behind creating and identifying profoundly experiential architecture, such as the works of James Turrell, Steven Holl and Tadao Ando.
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