Holistic health
Date
2017Citation:
Petterson, K. (2017). Holistic health (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional)). Unitec Institute of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand. Retrieved from: https://hdl.handle.net/10652/4696Permanent link to Research Bank record:
https://hdl.handle.net/10652/4696Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION:
How can a holistic design process work to address the increasing needs of health, and inform the design of housing developments?
ABSTRACT:
Housing is a key determinant of health, directly affecting our physical and mental health, as well as the wider environment that we all inhabit. There is great potential to improve the impact housing has on the health of its occupants and on the environment by addressing the ways in which we design and build. Areas with residents in the lowest percentile show the greatest potential for improvement, as their health and quality of life is most adversely affected by their environment.
This research and design project intends to develop a new model of housing which achieves physical, mental and ecological health in unison. Initially, research investigates housing ideals and perceptions commonly associated with health, and current solutions which aim to improve health. It then demonstrates how the perceptions of health and the use of segmented solutions affect the design of housing developments, and play a larger role in health.
To address this, the project explores the effects of housing developments on the three aspects of health: physical, mental and ecological. Investigation and analysis of design frameworks, housing models and projects, and their relation to health, have guided the architectural response. The Holistic Health Framework was established as a response to the research. Critical health issues within housing developments are directly addressed through the framework’s key design principles. These principles were referred to throughout the design process to ensure a holistic solution was achieved.
The framework guided the holistic design of a medium-density housing community. The project displays the way holistic design can positively influence the health outcome of future housing developments. The development is site responsive sustainable architecture, designed relative to its climate, location and social factors. The result of this research project is a socially inclusive architecture with the potential to heal, providing a foundation for residents to live healthy, fulfilling lives.