Second opinion on the design and layout of a new addiction treatment clinic based on the principles of the Healing Environment. The existing design, where the entrance plaza would double as a patio and garden for patients, would, in my opinion, undermine the clinic’s goal of patient recovery. The decision to enter addiction treatment is usually a major barrier for patients. Once made, it should be rewarded with a safe, welcoming, friendly environment where a person can stay until he or she is strong enough to leave the clinic.
Providing an enclosed yard where one can relax, unload, and smoke is part of this. A front yard is not enough, because that is where all the temptations of society are, from which someone needs to be temporarily protected. You cross the threshold of the front door only when you are ready and able to smoke a cigarette. On my advice, this was changed by moving the entrance and creating an enclosed garden where the patients could be safe.
Client PBG
Year 2010
Location Den Haag
Sector Cure
Tags Healing environment, generative space
