The design of a hydrotherapy facility in Mangolds pool resort: biophilic principles in the design of therapeutic environments

Abstract In the quest for achieving a modern civilization, the interconnected relationship between man and nature has changed to one of disconnection. This disconnection between built and natural environments leads to the deterioration of the physiological and psychological health and well-being of man. (Spaargaren & Mol, 1992) By analyzing healing environments over a lifetime, a better understanding can be formed as to what the ideal relationship should be for stimulating well-being in an ever changing modern society. Based on this, an attempt will be made to redefine this relationship. Since early antiquity water has been considered vital for both sustenance as well as the birth and development of civilizations. Man soon discovered its importance and beneficial properties in terms of healing and prevention. (Juuti et al. 2012). Such ancient wisdom can be adopted today and help improve our level of public health. For this reason, the proposed program is a hydrotherapy facility that focuses on the relation between the natural and built environment. The aim of this treatise is to examine how architecture can be a device that heals humans who have been compromised by their environment. The idea that a building can induce healing derives from the concept of Therapeutic Architecture, which explores various theories and principles such as Biophilic design, salutogenic design and Phenomenology. These concepts focus on the therapeutic qualities of the environment, which will be investigated to create a basis for the theoretical framework and play an integral part in design.Thesis (MA) -- Faculty - School of Architecture, 202