Thesis

This project won the Global Centre for Climate Action (GCCA) Award from OCAD University

Thesis

As research shows that when we embrace ourselves in nature, there are positive effects on our well-being, I suggest re-establishing a connection between patients and workers in wellness centers with nature to enhance healing and mental well-being. This reconnection will support their mental and physical recovery by harnessing the restorative benefits of incorporating nature, which include improved air quality, reduced heart rates, decreased stress levels, and more.

The Site

Dundas Street West and Bindiagen Trail is an area that is part of North Etobicoke, near 3 major streets, Bloor Street West, Dundas Street West and Kipling Avenue.The site is near a large residential neighbourhood to the North and to the West and East, where there are condo complexes. There is also a small shopping plaza to the west of the site. The location is also a good spot for public transportation as it's near Kipling station and Kipling GO, making it a very accessible spot for a wellness centre

The Concept

This project aims to enhance mental and physical recovery by re-establishing a connection between patients, wellness center workers, and nature . Serving as a wellness hub for the Etobicoke community, this centre will provide a public space for support, information, and services, helping all residents—whether diagnosed or not—on their journey toward better mental and physical health.

Imagined Spaces

Main Entrance idea

An exploration of possible materials to use on the exterior and how the exterior form may look like

Moodboard of main space

Main Space Idea

This will be an area where patients can wait for their appointments, workers can have a coffee break here or it is where the public can get information about the services that this wellness hub has. It will be open and filled with sunlight and natural elements to help achieve a welcoming environment

Storyboard

Showing the experience of someone touring the Wellness Centre

Situations

Main Lobby

Physiotherapy Centre

Therapy Room

NaturalSync Wellness focuses on the human connection to nature and how the benefits of being around nature can be used in wellness centres that work with mental and physical health, such as those who go through physiotherapy to help themselves in their physical life. NaturalSync wellness puts together two services that benefit human health into one centre. The spaces of this wellness centre include a main lobby centred around a biophillic element of an inverted tree, a physiotherapy centre, counselling rooms, a quiet lounge and a rooftop garden. Creating a centre that deals with physical and mental health makes accessing these services easier for those needing them.