Advanced Design Project
The Wait Well Project
This project proposes a socially responsible support space designed to reduce the emotional impact experienced by people awaiting medical care. It responds directly to a gap in the healthcare system around the prolonged periods of uncertainty, fear, and isolation happening while individuals wait for NHS appointments, tests, treatments or specialist care. For individuals experiencing stress-related illnesses, this emotional impact can intensify symptoms, worsen mental health, and create a vicious cycle of deterioration.
The space removes barriers within the healthcare system by being free, accessible without a referral, and open as a drop in space for people experiencing these emotional pressures around stress-related illness. The design functions as a preventative care space, as well as a stress and symptom management resource. It does not replace medical care or delay access to it, instead it provides clarity, reassurance, community, and coping tools during the waiting period.
This type of care is crucial at this point when people are anxious and emotionally strained. It offers immediate support and reassurance, ensuring that people are not left to navigate this difficult time alone. Rather than adding another step in the healthcare system, this space works alongside it, providing clarity, reassurance, and information while individuals wait for the next step within the system. The space aims to stabilise, educate, and support, reducing the emotional affect that can often intensify stress-related conditions.
Welcome Space
A warm domestic feeling entrance space designed to reduce the anxiety often associated with healthcare environments and make users feel comfortable walking in. The atmosphere should feel like stepping into a living room, with soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a sense of calm. A tea and coffee station encourages people to settle and put them at ease before exploring the rest of the space
Conversation Rooms - Emotional Guidance
A set of private spaces designed for connection, conversation and reassurance. These spaces should be comfortable and calm, and aim to outside views. Conversation rooms for one to one support with trained staff. Private spaces for sensitive discussions or moments of emotional connection.
Information Space - Clarity & Understanding
An area for accessing curated, evidence-based health information. Information hub with screens and books containing professionally curated resources. Communal table for workshops, health literacy sessions, and guided information sessions. Library with seating for quiet reading and reflection.
Kitchen - Community
A social space that encourages connection and shared experience. Shared kitchen space for informal gatherings, dining table and comfortable social seating.
Workshop Space - Clarity & Understanding
An area for accessing curated, evidence-based health information. Information hub with screens and books containing professionally curated resources. Communal table for workshops, health literacy sessions, and guided information sessions. Library with seating for quiet reading and reflection.
Biofeedback Stations - Control
A space that helps users navigate the healthcare system and regain a sense of control. Planning stations with desks for two people to sit together Computer access for understanding referrals, reading letters, preparing questions, or tracking symptoms. Biofeedback based stations to help people better understand and visualise their symptoms and stress patterns.
Studio Space - Symptom Managment
A calm, low-sensory environment for teaching and providing tools for managing stress-related symptoms. Studio space for guided group sessions such as breathing, grounding, or mindfulness Area for movement activities such as yoga or stretching. Quiet, low-stimulation atmosphere to support regulation and relief.
3D Model
Graphics
