Student Haven
Phenomenology as a tool for students’ mental well-being
A. Presură (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
J.H.A. Macco – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / A)
J.V. Campochiaro – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / AE+T)
Birgitte Hansen – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / A)
V.H. Gruis – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Real Estate Management)
More Info
expand_more
Other than for strictly personal use, it is not permitted to download, forward or distribute the text or part of it, without the consent of the author(s) and/or copyright holder(s), unless the work is under an open content license such as Creative Commons.
Abstract
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant global increase in mental health disorders, predicted to rise even further. University students are particularly affected due to their high prevalence of and sensitivity to mental health-related problems. Specifically in the Netherlands, this is further exacerbated by the ongoing housing crisis, which forces many students into poor-quality, cramped accommodations. This research explores how phenomenological principles can inform student housing design to enhance mental well-being. Using a literature review, case studies, interviews, and participatory sketching, the study identifies key architectural elements that support mental well-being. Among these, the most important findings highlight the importance of accessible and visible greenery from the dwelling, ample direct sunlight, quiet bedrooms, communal spaces and the presence of a courtyard.