Klaustrofobi och akrofobi : osynliga tillgänglighetsproblem

Spa-resorts have been a place for healing of the body and mind since the time of ancient Greece. In the stressful society we live in today these kinds of resorts have once again become very popular and now local entrepreneurs want to build a spa at the top of Vitberget, the highest point in Skellefteå. The entrance will consist of a tunnel through the mountain, an elevator and a skywalk that leads into the spa. This might pose a problem for people with phobias of tight spaces and/ or heights. Accessibility is much more than just easy access and contrasting markings. This study examines chosen phobias from an accessibility point of view. Research shows that humans are strongly affected by their physical environment. Color, form, light and materials evoke different feelings and associations. Four people with phobia of tight spaces and/ or heights are interviewed in this study to find a suitable design for their needs. The informants, with some help from the interview questions and pictures of different tunnels, elevators and skywalks, get to describe a good design based on their phobia and personal preferences. This information is then compared to research done in this area. Sketches based on empiric and theoretic information are then discussed with one of the informants and this leads up to the final design proposal. The conclusions drawn from theoretical and empirical information are that light is very important and that tight, dark spaces are regarded as uncomfortable. Inputs from nature like wood, vegetation and water seems to be calming, while metal and raw concrete can be discouraging. The fear of being trapped is strong and information about what awaits you can facilitate your walk along the entrance way. The tunnel, the elevator and the skywalk can be designed to fit people with phobia of tight spaces and/ or heights and this can contribute to a better architecture for everybody.Validerat; 20121105 (anonymous