HOUSE FOR DWELLING - ‘’HEALTH AND WELBEING’’
This concept requires an exploration of the spatial interrelationships between family members, the concept and functions of a home, and place attachment, with a focus on achieving physical and mental wellbeing. The aim is to develop innovative design solutions that enhance family relationships, house functions, and homely qualities within the architectural space.
To achieve the concept , it is necessary to understand the current issues related to health and wellbeing in residential units, both in the Sri Lankan urban context and the global context. This understanding will inform the development of innovative design concepts that prioritize both homely spaces and healthy spaces for wellbeing.
In essence, the task requires an investigation into how a house can support the health and wellbeing of its occupants while fulfilling its functions as a dwelling. The resulting design solutions should promote positive family relationships and attachment to the home while creating a healthy and comfortable living environment.
Design Objectives:
Enhance Family Relationships: Foster spatial interconnections that encourage interaction, communication, and bonding among family members.
Functional Efficiency: Optimize the layout and circulation patterns to ensure smooth flow between spaces and provide efficient access to amenities and services.
Homely Qualities: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere through material selection, lighting, colors, and textures, promoting a sense of comfort and wellbeing.
Physical Wellbeing: Integrate sustainable design principles to maximize natural light, ventilation, thermal comfort, and energy efficiency within the house.
Mental Wellbeing: Incorporate spaces for relaxation, meditation, and rejuvenation, focusing on natural views, privacy, and noise reduction strategies.
Place Attachment: Design a house that harmonizes with the local context, reflects the cultural identity, and instills a sense of pride and belonging.
Architectural Features:
Open Floor Plan: Incorporate open and flexible spaces that encourage family members to gather, interact, and engage in shared activities.
Privacy Zones: Design private areas such as bedrooms and study rooms that offer personal space and tranquility.
Indoor-Outdoor Connection: Integrate outdoor living spaces, gardens, and balconies to provide opportunities for nature interaction and outdoor activities.
Natural Lighting: Maximize the use of windows, skylights, and light wells to ensure ample natural light throughout the house.
Sustainable Design: Incorporate energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and renewable energy systems to minimize the carbon footprint of the dwelling.
Sound Insulation: Implement effective acoustic design strategies to reduce external noise and create a calm indoor environment.
Accessibility: Ensure the design adheres to universal design principles, providing easy access and convenience for all residents, including people with disabilities.
Materials and Finishes:
Sustainable Materials: Prioritize the use of eco-friendly and locally sourced materials, minimizing environmental impact.
Natural Finishes: Incorporate materials such as wood, stone, and natural fibers to create a tactile and visually appealing environment.
Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) Finishes: Use paints, adhesives, and sealants with low VOC content to ensure healthy indoor air quality.