Spatial quality in space design for promoting self - healing in healthcare design

Abstract

In most of the healthcare centres found in Malaysia, the building are designed with little therapeutic qualities in them, and studies has shown that the environment in those healthcare centres frequently heighten levels of stress in patients, staff and families. Besides, there are a lack of design considerations regarding spatial quality in restoring the occupants‘ mental wellness and reducing the stress which could help in fostering the recovery duration. Recent studies show that appropriate healing environment in healthcare settings could help enhance the sensory input to stimulate the body‘s capabilities to heal itself, also known as self-healing. The main focus of this study is to highlight the possible Architectural solutions in creating a healing environment through spatial quality in space design. The natural environment is frequently discussed in relation with the healing environment; daylight, ventilation, views and garden, thus enhancing the well-being of the occupants. Through a critical review of literature from secondary sources, examples of the implementation of natural environment into building design shows that there exists a strong connection between humans and the man-made environment in relation to spatial quality in space design. Some design considerations were identified for consideration in future design of healthcare building in promoting self-healing.