Play Space

Play Space explores the role play, creativity, and inter-space can have in youth mental health care environments. Exploring the role of ‘play’ in ‘breaking the ice’ with new patients, inviting them into the site, familiarising them with the community, and commencing conversations around mental health. The ‘fun’ character of the design encourages children’s creativity, imagination and cognitive thinking, while distancing itself from the traditional architectural language of ‘Institutional’ schools and hospitals, providing children with a sense of ownership over the space. Finally, inter-space is utilised for retreat-spaces, transition zones and parallel-play providing occupants with a sense of support and autonomy within the centre.

The design attempts to create a playground atmosphere for younger patients through various pockets of inter-space, transition zones, gardens and play spaces, designed to encourage socialisation, creativity and play.

The design aims to create both social, fun and active play spaces, encouraging chil-dren to express themselves creatively, and structured, private areas where patients can feel comfortable discussing sensitive issues.

The reception is designed as an information hub and waiting room where patients can get information about activities or consultations. The reception also features a locker-room that facilitates patient check-in/check-out.

The playroom is an open, communal and fun space with various activities, designed to ‘break the ice with new patients, encouraging them into the site for non-clinical activities.

The art room is a fun and creative space that can also be used for art therapy. Designed as a ‘fun’ yet ‘homely’ space where children can express themselves creatively.