Oasis of the Spirit

Undergraduate Thesis

User Research

Contextual Analysis

Journey Mapping

Computational Design

Parametric Design

Spatial Planning

Wireframing

Typology

Youth Mental Wellness Centre

Role

Lead Designer

Time Duration

3 Months

Challenge

Today’s generation often experiences a decline in mental fitness, largely influenced by the intensely competitive and often misguided nature of our society. The youth of today frequently grapple with feelings of disturbance, depression, and immense pressure. The challenge is to create a space that instills positivity in all those who visit.

Solution

My motivation behind choosing this project was to explore how architecture could be wielded as a tool to cultivate happiness. I sought to understand how a harmonious fusion of design elements could provide stability, even to those experiencing turmoil. The core objective of this uplifting space is to challenge preconceived notions and foster tranquility, opening new horizons for individuals while imparting a sense of stability. By doing so, we aspire to empower them with the strength and confidence needed to confront the stressors of life, rekindling their spirits and enabling them to live life on their terms.

Goal Statement

The “Oasis of the Spirit” aligns with the World Health Organization’s mission to enhance mental well-being, prevent disorders, safeguard human rights, and offer comprehensive care. It envisions a sanctuary that promotes mental health holistically, breaking societal norms and ushering in a new era of well-being.

Goal Statement

Finding the Intersection

Research foundation comprised a literature study and on-site case analyses, delving into cognitive psychology, therapeutic interventions, and seminal works like ‘Eyes of the Skin.’ Immersive visits to serene environments provided insights, contributing to findings on the intricate elements fostering contentment, relaxation, and inner peace in harmonious atmospheres.

Learnings:

Common problems dealt with Instill balance in biological energy systems and their environment using the energy of forms
The pyramid is used to relieve pain and reduce stress based on material
The cube is used to instill stability and jog memory
The dome is used to induce euphoria and provide confidence
The cone is a provides a mix of all of the above
The cone activates creativity and induces balance

Learnings:

Provide activities that provide them with a sense of achievement

Provide an atmosphere that doesn’t undermine their self-worth

Provide a safe space for them to express their emotions and being considerate of others

Instill self-assuredness and provide healthy coping mechanisms

Learnings:

Collaboration of architecture, neuroscience & perception

Create separation through material (touch), sound

Create direction through senses

Pleasant smells & softscapes to instill comfort

Tactile connection to material, temperatures & their vibrations

Comprehending time through

shadows

Using movement to represent scale

Learnings:

How the five elements are used Complementary colors are bold and dynamic

Analogous colors used to create a feeling of harmony

Use warm colors to induce joy and pleasure

Pink has a tranquilizing effect on anxiety

Cool colors have a soothing effect

Greens help alleviate anxiousness and stress, helps with nervous disorders

Focusing on Maximum Impact

The deliberate choice of Mumbai as the project site, known as the City of Dreams, aims to address stress in a city attracting aspirational youth nationwide. Strategic location selection considers robust connectivity via road, rail, and water, aligning with urban development for Port revitalization. In the near future, this locality offers a unique possibility to create education and sports facilities that can provide the youth of Mumbai some space to learn and excel. This area should become the hub of a new Port Lands university for Mumbai, focusing on creating a next generation economy.