In my final year project I designed a spinal rehabilitation centre. I was inspired to produce something that Ireland was truly lacking in. The proposed centre would help young people recover in a holistic way and gain a new lease on life by learning how to adapt to their new reality after their serious injuries. I felt it was really important that, as well as adapting to their new physical limitations, the centre would help them to adapt mentally to their new life. I think this concept is unique as I visited other rehabilitation hospitals and and spoke to one young patient in particular and I realised the importance of a facility that focused on young people and their shared experiences. My idea focuses on building up connections with people in a peaceful, mindful and natural location along the Shannon River. For me, focusing on the healing effect of water and nature is a very powerful force. The interiors I designed were comfortable, peaceful and encouraged healing and communication. I have first-hand experience with a serious illness at a young age and I spent a month in Cork University Hospital. I know what the recovery experience feels like and how daunting it is to leave the hospital and go back to reality. I did feel isolated when I was a patient, as I didn't have anyone my own age to talk to. So that's how I came up with this solution, a space that wasn't so clinical and it would have people staying in the centre who were in a similar situation and age bracket (18-25). I am very interested in artistic design and expression so it was important for me to integrate this into the technical and sustainable aspects of interior design and, on this particular project, I surpassed my expectations. I researched and put in place ideas for retrofitting an older building and making it wheelchair accessible. I used water colours to enhance the aerial site maps, that I sketched myself, to scale. I enjoyed the challenge of making the models, making my cohesive technical plan and introducing my own twist with a soft rendered landscape.
