Article: The Stirling Prize and holistic design 2009
Holistic Design and the Stirling Prize for Architecture - OCTOBER 2009
The Prestigious Stirling Prize for architecture has been awarded to a healing building designed for cancer patients and a health centre that focuses on the atmosphere and psychology of the building was also on the shortlist.
Both buildings incorporate the principles of holistic design and the winning Maggie Cancer Centre also encompasses a healing garden area as an integral part of the design. In both buildings the therapeutic and mood-enhancing qualities of natural light and colour have been used to maximum effect. The architects have brought an openness and human scale to the buildings making them more open, friendly and relaxing.
The new buildings are already having a positive response on doctors and patients. In a recent television interview, a consultant working at the Kenthish Town health centre, reported that his patients were more relaxed and open about their symptoms making it easier for him to diagnose and treat their problems. Patients were also enthusiastic, stating that both buildings were welcoming and relaxing thus reducing their anxiety and stress.
The success of these two buildings is heralding a new emphasis on healthy and people friendly designs in the public sector and the growing demand for specialist designers in this field.
