ADHDventure: A Therapeutic and Wellness Hub for Children with ADHD

University of Santo Tomas (UST), College of Architecture

Project idea

The proposed Integrated Therapeutic and Wellness Hub aims to provide comprehensive support and treatment for children and adolescents with ADHD, serving as both a therapy hub and a community center. This project represents a significant step forward in progressive mental health care in the Philippines, setting the stage for the development of specialized treatment facilities that cater to the diverse needs of neurodivergent individuals.

Reflecting evolving societal needs and the purpose of architecture in advancing solutions for complex mental health challenges, the project conducts thorough research into the cognitive needs of neurodivergent individuals, bridging the gap found between psychological requirements and consequent architectural adaptation.

Project description

Influenced by collective efforts to address ADHD treatment in the Philippines, the Therapeutic and Wellness Hub for Children with ADHD embodies a journey of individuals uniting towards progress and transformation. Through identifying and translating the psychological needs of individuals with ADHD into distinct architectural solutions, the project emphasizes on the venture of its users towards 3 main goals: enrichment, healing, and empowerment.

The project consists of 2 main parts, the community center that is open to the public, and the clinical zone which is dedicated for treatment of children and adolescents with ADHD. The spaces within these zones are compartmentalized: further broken down and organized according to activity level and general purpose.

Specifically, the community center includes a library, restaurant, auditorium, workshop rooms, and multi-purpose rooms. The clinical zone includes rooms that support different types of therapy such as traditional therapy, talk therapy, group therapy, music therapy, art therapy, nature immersion therapy, etc.

Technical information

The building utilizes reinforced concrete construction, where its columns, beams, and flooring system are comprised of metal and concrete. A mat footing foundation is implemented as a response to the structure being near a body of water.