Article on the Impact of Design Elements on Wellness in the Built environment

3.1 Environment

According to (Randall & Montgomery, 2012) there is little evidence about how design elements impact wellness in the built environment. The authors describe their findings through an investigative study examining the perceptions of 234 commercial interior designers regarding the six principles of wellness in the workplace. The authors (Randall & Montgomery, 2012) continue to say that design professionals agree thatthe ten design elements could impact the wellnessof the occupants of an interior space. Randall & Montgomery’s, (2012,1) research found that 98% of interiordesigners believed that interior design does impact wellness. Responses to the research also showed that there is an agreement among interior design professionals that all six of the design elements define wellness.

Executive director of the National Wellness Institute defines the six main dimensions of wellness.

3.1.1 Physical wellness

The need for regular physical activity, to learn about diet and nutrition, while discouraging the use of tobacco, drugs and excessive use of alcohol.(Randall & Montgomery, 2012)

3.1.2 Emotional wellness

Emotional wellness recognises awareness and acceptance of one’s feelings as well as the ability to form independent relationships. Relationships with others should be based on trust and respect, which is of utmost importance.(Randall & Montgomery, 2012)

3.1.3 Spiritual wellness

Spiritual wellness recognises ones search for meaning and purpose in one’s life. It can also be defined by peaceful harmony between internal feeling and emotions throughout one’s life. Feelings and emotions should be measured against the value system that one adopts.(Randall & Montgomery, 2012)

3.1.4 Intellectual wellness

Intellectual wellness recognises ones creative, stimulating activities, as well as expanding on knowledge and skills.(Randall & Montgomery, 2012)

3.1.5 Occupational wellness

Occupational wellness recognises one’s personal satisfaction and enrichment in life, through work.(Randall & Montgomery, 2012)

3.1.6 Social wellness

Social wellness encourages the contribution to one’s environment and community. It also supports making healthy living choices. Social wellness also aims to initiate better communication with people.(Randall & Montgomery, 2012)

Site analysis

Site analysis

Proximities

The site is in close proximity to Uitenage, Despatch and Port Elizabeth. On site there is also a nearby dam, which currently supplies water to the surrounding farms. There is also staff courters in sight of the building, but is hidden by a high wall.

Vehicular access and parking

Something to consider would be a paved area for parking, as there is not currently an area allocated. There is currently no landscaping; this would be a challenging aspect to consider, as nature is a big part of the design concept. Other considerations include sun paths to make optimum use of natural light, as well as making use of the South westerly prevailing winds to aid in passive cooling where applicable. Rossbach & Yun (1998, 95) suggest that the configuration of a driveway or path conducts ch’i as well as guides people to an entrance of a building; this increases the first impression of a space. The link between exterior and interior should have a gracious undercurrent.

Building orientation and size

The view of the Lady Slipper Mountain is a focal point, and should be used to its benefit.  The two main sheds are connected by another building forming a courtyard that is perfect for protection from the prevailing winds. The courtyard receives morning sun, as is east facing, therefore natural light can be used to the designs benefit. Considerations need to be made concerning what facilities will go where with regards to the sun path, in winter, as well as in summer. Landscaping would therefore need to form part of the design process. Landscaping would benefit the design with regards to healing environments in nature as well as act as a buffer for noise, from the N2. Other landscaping to consider would be private gardens, courtyards and green walls.

The approximate area of the site is 121 960m², the area of the existing chapel and hall (the first structures built) is 861m². Also included in the floor area is the new entertainment area which consists of 186m², the kitchen which is 64,34m² and the sum of the two storerooms on the west side of the building is 89m², lastly the ablutions make up 61,24m². There is also an additional storeroom on the south side of the site adjacent to the chapel which is 79,475m².

Zen garden

Zen gardens

According to (Rossbach & Yun, 1998) people who want to enjoy outside spaces, but are not bothered by actual gardening and growing things, should have a zen garden. Rossbach & Yun, (1998, 115) continues to explain that a zen garden concentrates on horticulture rather than flowers,the meticulous arrangement of stones, shrubs, water, trees and sand have evvollved into art forms. Where flawless equilibrium of yin and yang occurs, it allows the life giving forces of nature to reach their complete potential.

(Rossbach & Yun, 1998) goes on to say that Zen gardens revolve around three main features, namely; water, stone lantern, and stepping stones. The ‘tsukabi’ or water basin, is a simple, rounded stone with a recess or dip, filled with water, together with the water, there is ladle, to wash the face and hands before entering the tea house. (Rossbach & Yun, 1998, p. 115) further explains that the stone lantern or ‘ishidoro’, is a symbol for a guiding light, that steers one safely along lifes chaotic paths. The third element according to (Rossbach & Yun, 1998) is the stepping stones, which create pathwys to certain parts of the garden, if good Feng Shui is desired, rounded plants should be used in the garden, which synbolises weath and prosperity. Laslty zen gardens encompass have a tea house, a moon viewing apavilian, as well as stone or timber benches, for quiet contemplation.

Possible Corel layout 

Zen garden as inspiration, as well as the golden ratio...

The cool hunter

Situation

The retreat will be situated outside of Port Elizabeth near the Witteclip Private Nature Reserve, for the main reason that retreats need to be away from the busy city life. One needs solitude and silence, to be only surrounded by the sounds and views of nature. I want to take nature, and use it as a backdrop to the therapy sessions, whatever they might be.

I propose to create a Rejuvenation retreat that will be focussed on the health and well-being of people in relation to nature. The retreat will be a place of ultimate healing and rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul. We need to renew our discernment and have a positive outlook on life. I propose to inaugurate a retreat that is a sanctuary, and a safeguard from the outside world.

The retreat will consist of therapeutic and rejuvenation. 

Therapies within specifically designed healing environments will include programs that deal with many of life’s obstacles. Issues that will be of concern include depression, anxiety, grief, burnout, post trauma, post rehabilitation, abuse, family and relationship issues as well as work stress and eating disorders. The rejuvenation part of the retreat is for absolute relaxation and renewal of the body mind and soul, for a time out and nurturing. The rejuvenation would include deep cleanses as well as detoxification of the body through organic foods and fruit juices. Rejuvenation would also cater for body work, which would take place in the spa facility provided. Lastly exercise would form part of the rejuvenation process through Pilates, yoga, Thai chi and meditation.

The core of the retreat would be the well-being of the guests, through sensorial interactions during the therapies as well as within the space. The journey that guests take on arrival would be experienced through the healing process of the body, soul and mind. Through spa treatments, therapy sessions, group sessions, walks through the garden and spaces, meditation during yoga or quiet times and exercise through Pilates.

The retreat will be entirely modified in consultation with you to meet personal targets. Passion and knowledge will be offered as well as depth of experience in this retreat while one discovers and nourishes one’s own personal spirituality.

Introduction

“Seek a sanctuary , Respect it, as it is Holy, walk into it with a bare mind, bare feet and plain clothing, Nurture your body, mind and spirit through a healing ritual, Leave it with a pure heart until you find a way to it again.” – Master Jin Kwon

A balance of the body, mind and soul is a holistic and integrated approach to wellness. This thesis will investigate ways in healing the whole person, by using natural therapeutic methods, as well as making optimum use of one’s senses. Like a seal comes up for air, (Dinah 2005, 12) states that even the most committed urbanites need to take a break from the busy city life occasionally to recharge their souls in the country side. One could see the countryside as therapeutic, and crave simplicity of style, an aesthetic of reduction.

L'Odyssée de Cartier

“Seek a sanctuary , Respect it, as it is Holy, walk into it with a bare mind, bare feet and plain clothing, Nurture your body, mind and spirit through a healing ritual, Leave it with a pure heart until you find a way to it again.” – Master Jin Kwon

The Pips... luv ya my friend!!

Slipperfields...