In a prison, architecture is the world : damning denunciation of the Devil's Isle

Abstract

RESEARCH QUESTION: How can the architecture in a prison be used to rehabilitate low to medium security prisoners to benefit society?

ABSTRACT: This research project attempts to create a new prison design typology within the New Zealand climate and turning the tide of punishment to instead rehabilitate the offenders for reintegration into society. This typology will be achieved through the architecture of the building, with the use of natural light, air flow, colour, space and form to inspire inmates to improve themselves.

From this project, it is clear that prisons in the past and mostly still today are used to punish and discipline a person who has done wrong against the law. However, a recent phenomenon has seen a change in the way we utilise our prisons, and how the people kept inside are treated. It has become evidentially true that as a society we will benefit more by having prisons aimed to rehabilitate and reform its inmates. It is evident through the research that an environment in which a person is surrounded by can have the biggest influence on their progress for rehabilitation. Natural environments seem to have the most positive effects.

To address the question of using architecture in prisons to rehabilitate the prisoners, this project will research in depth the successful and unsuccessful prisons. By looking at existing projects, it will become evident as to what should be included in the future to enhance the space and make it as rehabilitative as possible.