Mental Illness Treatment Center.

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of mental health issues has highlighted the urgent need for therapeutic and humane environments within mental illness treatment centers. This thesis explores the role of architectural design in promoting healing, well-being, and dignity for individuals undergoing mental health treatment. The focus of the study is on developing an architectural approach that harmonizes therapeutic needs, safety requirements, and aesthetic qualities to create a supportive and non-institutional environment. The study includes case analyses of recent mental health facilities worldwide, with an emphasis on best practices in privacy, accessibility, and adaptability. It also considers the impact of flexible spaces that can support individual and group therapy, community interaction, and recreation. Through this thesis, I propose a design for a mental illness treatment center that goes beyond traditional institutional models, creating a space that fosters emotional safety, psychological resilience, and holistic healing. The ultimate goal is to demonstrate that architecture can be a powerful therapeutic tool in mental health care, fostering environments that help patients recover with dignity and respect.