Megan Martin
The inspiration for my thesis topic came from my passion for healthcare design. Within the healthcare sector of Interior Design, every design decision is strategically thought out to benefit the users in the space. I enjoy researching and supporting my design decisions with evidence-based design to showcase why and how Interior Design is a tool that can treat and enhance the quality of human experience. I am eager to begin my career in Interior Design and apply my creative knowledge, passion and skills to different projects!
Educational Diabetes Facility
There is an overall increase in Diabetes, specifically within young individuals. The Educational Diabetes Facility is designed for the client, Diabetes Canada, and offers a unique learning approach to help combat the rise in Diabetes. Through hands-on education, healthcare, community and escape spaces, the design aims to create a new early education model for young diabetics and prepare them with the proper education to be able to manage their health independently.
Rationale and Design Narrative
Evidence-based design was considered when forming the concept to enhance the user's wellbeing within the space. The concept for the Educational Diabetes Facility is to create areas of escape that are inhabitable structures or forms that allow users to escape the surrounding elements to enjoy time to themselves. Research showcases that young diabetics frequently experience negative emotions within diabetic care facilities. Escape niches can help reduce these negative emotions that may be experienced and enhance users’ overall well being. These escape niches are designed to vary in different levels of scale, form and privacy.
Design Connection to Research
Research suggests that diabetes is a disease that affects many young Canadians and is one of the leading causes of death in the country (Statistics Canada). In response to the research studied, the mission for my thesis is to design a new early education model for young Type 1 and 2 diabetics. Evidence showcased that it is important to prepare young diabetics with the proper education, skills and resources to be able to manage their health independently. By doing so, this can also potentially reduce the risk of lifelong health complications.
Character of Space
The overall character of the space is influenced by biophilic design. Curvilinear forms are explored within the space to create a sense of movement while also serving as a form of wayfinding. Colour selections are strategically selected to create an overall calming and welcoming environment. Skylights and large operable windows are designed to increase natural daylight within the space and allow for natural ventilation. Views to nature, green walls and outdoor spaces are also ways biophilic design is incorporated. Accessibility also informed the character of the space to allow all types of users and user abilities to enjoy the interior by having larger corridors, accessible wayfinding, accessible heights and more. Flexibility is another key element that informed the character of the space because of the many programs and events the client hosts. These spaces are designed to be large enough to host group events and be equipped with flexible furniture that can be easily re-configured to suit the client’s needs.
Program Consideration
The program for the Educational Diabetes Facility is organized into zones which include; learning, community, healthcare and escape zones. Learning spaces are designed to be inclusive and allow users hands-on learning experiences. These spaces include, educational kitchen, greenhouse and classrooms. Community spaces are designed to be flexible, host community events and allow users to connect and socialize. These spaces include the cafeteria and common area. Healthcare spaces are designed for users to receive help and consultations on diet, nutrition, medicine and physical activity/therapy. These spaces include consultation rooms, insulin rooms, and exam rooms. Escape niches are designed for users to escape the surrounding environment and help reduce negative emotions. These spaces are located throughout to allow users multiple options for escape.
