A Residence for PTSD diagnosed Veteran
Sept-Dec 2020
Objective
Design a residence for an early-retired. PTSD-diagnosed Veteran
Client Story
A 35-year-old female veteran tragically lost her air-force unit in an inevitable attack. This incident initiated our client’s PTSD symptoms
Client's PTSD symptoms
- Anxiety/ insecurity
- Flashbacks triggered by the presence of fire or loud sounds
Research Team Members
Sara B., Sara M., Rand A.
Design is individual
Tools
AutoCAD / Revit / Enscape / Photoshop
Concept Statement
To accommodate the need for power, safety, and serenity, the residence design will focus on a robust exterior structure, and a transparent elliptical interior layout woven with moments of lively colors and textures inspired by nature. Eliminating the presence of a direct heat source and utilizing acoustical surfaces will further support the client in overcoming day-to-day challenges imposed by their PTSD symptoms.
Circular layouts is preferred [by PTSD patients] over a square layout. This is in line with Hess et al.’s (2013) findings
Safety worrying is the major reason for mental disorders, such as anxiety, phobia, depression, and PTSD. (Zheng, 1)
Floor Plans
The exterior is fluid and bold; it imposes continuity, security, and power that contribute to the resident's PTSD coping mechanisms.
“Subjective reports of sleep disturbance indicate that 70-91% of patients with post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD) have difficulty falling or staying asleep" (Maher, 568)
- The residence design focus on establishing a Zen-like bedroom environment
- Emphasizing curvature and the feel of enclosure culminates with better sleep
Serenity Space
Entrance (Central Elliptical Staircase)
Living Area
Dining and Kitchen
Structure and Detailing
Residence's Exterior Concrete Structure
Elliptical Staircase Detailing
Other Work
A Residence for PTSD diagnosed Veteran