Holistic approach to care

It is increasingly recognised that long-term illness and speed of recovery are deeply linked to our inner state of health and wellbeing. Whilst medicine and therapy take the lead in curing, the physical environment, architecture and ambience vastly influence the patient’s sense of ease and trust in the healing process.

An ambience of natural materials, natural light, vistas into gardens and nature, a delicate sense of beauty and harmony in the proportions of spaces and attention to detail with subtle colour schemes, exude balance and care. We mirror inside what we experience outside and disease is what occurs when the healthy flow of regenerative forces is compromised. Hence good orientation and flow between spaces and a sense of interconnectedness of the internal and external features all contribute to the “therapeutic approach” in care environments.

With mental health issues on the rise, triggered by an overdose of polarising stimuli, there is a need to pay renewed attention to the more subtle nuances of sensory experiences.

Over the years we have consulted on many project from individual therapy spaces to whole therapy centres to collaborate with therapist and clients in the development of sensitive architecture that enables, rather than constraints our sense of wellbeing. We work with a Steiner based approach, incorporating the concept of the 12 senses and four classical elements, to broaden and harmonise sensorial experiences within the built environment.

Whether it is a water feature in a courtyard, space evaluation for sensory experiences, or more principle design considerations for the overall layout and landscape integration, we have consulted on many projects in the care sector to create the best possible experience for patients, staff and carers.