Lecture Notes: Designing for Well-being by Angela Mazy

Introduction

• Speaker: Angela Mazy, Architect and Principal at GBBN, Cincinnati, Ohio
• Focus: Salutogenesis, equity, and sociocultural context in design
• Objective: Demystify science in design for well-being

Key Concepts

Salutogenesis

• Definition: Health generating; coined by Aaron Antonowsky
• Focus: Providing resources for health and well-being
• Significance: Better health outcomes with more resources
• Components: Five aspects identified in design
  • Sense of Coherence: Meaningful, manageable, comprehensible spaces
  • Self-Efficacy: Empowerment through choice and control
  • Biophilia: Connection to nature
  • Prospect and Refuge: Psychological safety
  • Relaxation Response: Resetting the nervous system

Equity in Design

• Exposome: External and socioeconomic factors impacting health
• Equity Lens: Designing for diversity and inclusivity
• Framework:
  • Health Beyond Buildings: Extending care and benefits to community
  • Welcoming and Inclusive Spaces: Accessibility and cultural competence
  • Regenerative Spaces: Energy efficiency and equitable resource distribution

Application in Design

Case Study: Comprehensive Care Center

• Concept: Cancer and heart care in one building

• Equity Considerations:

  • Wraparound services (genetic counseling, social services, etc.)
  • Accessible design and low energy use
  • Psychological safety and natural environments

• Salutogenesis in Practice:

  • Entry: Self-empowerment through design and transparency
  • Atrium: Wayfinding and natural integration
  • Cafe & Clinics: Social choice and empowerment
  • Infusion Bays: Choice of social or private experience
  • Radiation Oncology: Positive distraction with nature
  • Staff Areas: Quality respite and empowerment

Additional Insights

• Design Prompts: Addressing stress and anxiety with resources
• Equity Lens Application: Through scales of individual, building, and community
• Conclusion: Salutogenic strategies and equity lens create resilient and inclusive environments

Additional Resources

• ACSA Paper: Explores salutogenesis and health equity
• QR Code: Access to paper for more in-depth understanding

Discussion Highlights

• Overlaps with public health and trauma-informed design
• Specific projects addressing unique population needs (e.g., Santa Fe project)

Closing Remarks

• Comments from Jurors: Positive feedback and acknowledgment of the relevance of the concepts presented.