Architectural (Physio)therapy: A Dynamic Healing Process

Rehabilitation facilities are not providing patients with appropriate environments for physical healing. By isolating physical therapy to a room, these spaces do little to promote movement, invigorate the senses, and assist patients with their recovery . The connective system of rehabilitation facilities, such as corridors or hallways, could allow physical therapy to expand through the building and provide patients with interactive and dynamic sessions. This thesis will investigate the idea of designing for physical rehabilitation by examining theories of healing spaces in order to achieve complete well-being. These theories will be used in conjunction with the gradual process of healing through mobility and exercise in order to design the circulation system of a physical rehabilitation centre, based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.