My research seeks to understand how the built environment impacts the mental development of children. My thought process primarily centres around these points:
Safe spaces: Well-designed spaces provide a sense of safety. The sense of safety is a stable foundation for mental wellbeing, and consequently, for mental development.
Sensory stimulation: A multi-sensory experience rich in shapes and colours, natural materials, green surfaces, spaces for movement and creative activities. Community spaces: Places that provide opportunities for community building, group work, and collaboration. Learning: Providing opportunities for playful educational activities. First, I examine the relationship between people and the physical environment, including what information the built environment can carry, and how people can interpret this information. I then consider my findings as they relate to children, to get a better understanding of how they are affected by a building's interior and exterior environment. Based on these, I try to identify the spatial elements and situations that provide a good developmental environment for children.