Youth Mental Health Centre in Sion, Valais

Anja Ils

This project explores the challenges of designing a mental health centre in an urban environment, focusing on meeting current needs, and providing long-term community benefits. The research covers therapeutic demands, local needs, and architectural strategies. Recent rise in mental health problems, especially among the young population, is becoming a pressing issue worldwide and in Switzerland. The stigma of being seen in a mental health facility also prevent many from seeking help. The proposed mixed-use building, part of a public park, combines a mental health and a community centre. It serves as a psychiatric day hospital for children and provides outpatient mental healthcare for young people. The lower floor hosts public spaces, such as a library, playground and café, which helps to destigmatize the facility. The proposed centre is in Sion, capital of Valais. The city hosts various higher education institutions, international companies, and benefits from tourism. There is a need for such a centre, given future economic and population growth. Indeed, the Ronquoz 21 masterplan, a major mixed-use urban development project, is already under construction. The proposed facility is located near the Rhône Plaza, offering easy access to the Sion train station and schools. Overall, this project aims to address current needs and help break the stigma surrounding mental illness through inviting and integrated architecture, benefiting the city and its inhabitants for years to come.

Files
Énoncé (PDF), Planche (PDF)
LINKS
Team
Teachers:
Florence Graezer Bideau, Sophie Lufkin, Emmanuel Rey
Supervision team:
Rey, Emmanuel (dir. pédagogique) ; Graezer Bideau, Florence (prof.) ; Lufkin, Sophie (maître EPFL) ; Wéry, Jeanne (expert)
Professor in charge of the statement:
Rey, Emmanuel (ENAC IA LAST)
Unit:
ENAC-SAR, LAST
Infos
Year:
2024
Period:
Master, Fall
Category:
Master Project
Copyright:
CC BY Licence
Theoretical statement

State of Mind: Challenges and Perspectives in creating a Mental Health Center in an Urban Setting

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