Sprout's Discover Center: A speculative youth therapy and wellness center
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Date
2024-05
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The Ohio State University
Abstract
The intent of this research thesis is to understand how interior design can enrich educational and social health for the young population of an under-resourced community through behavioral, cognitive, and general learning competencies in the form of a speculative pediatric therapy clinic. My research project is a continuation of my speculative capstone, Sprout’s Discovery Center located in Franklinton, Ohio for children aged 3 to 8. Franklinton is a neighborhood with a diverse historically rich population who faces significant challenges related to poverty, education, and access to healthcare. Currently, 52% of residents are living in poverty, 35% of Franklinton adults do not have a high school degree, only 20% of residents have at least a college degree, and among the k-8 schools, there is a chronic absenteeism rate of 44.3%.3 Understanding the context of the fragmented community of Franklinton reveals the need of a stronger foundation system starting in childhood development. While this project will remain speculative, I plan to research theories from the fields of biophilia, sustainability, children's psychology, and neuroscience to inform my decision-making process. I hope to understand what elements in a built environment induce stress for developing children and how to avoid and curate a positive user experience for them. This will ensure that my research, design process, and design proposal effectively and creatively address the unique needs of the youth in Franklinton. The research methods I plan to use to inform my design decisions are primary and secondary sources and case studies. Sprout's programmed spaces offer a therapeutic clinic including services like speech pathology, occupational therapy, and counseling for behavior management. Additional services include a library, indoor play space, and family activity spaces. These services aim to address the physical, mental, and social needs for the children in the community.
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Keywords
Interior Design, Pediatric wellness center, Biophilia, Neuroarchitecture, Childhood Development