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Natalia Burak - "Water as a source of anxiety and a therapeutic tool. Creation of adaptive and promotive space"

06 of May '25
Technical data
Type: undergraduate thesis
Year of defense: 2024
Name: "WATER AS A SOURCE OF ANXIETY AND A THERAPEUTIC TOOL. CREATION OF ADAPTIVE AND PROMOTIVE SPACE"
Author:

Natalia Burak

University:
Sopot Academy of Applied Sciences

Promoter:

Prof. Radoslaw Czerniejewski

Work submitted for the competition
"Best Interior Diploma".

The guiding thought, setting the goal and direction, was the desire to create an adaptive space for people in whom water is a reason for fear and anxiety. Inspired by the sensory dimension of water and providing an introduction to the attempt to create safe spaces, the project is intended to be an approach proposal in getting used to the possible prospect of moving life to water objects.

strefa główna, basen

main zone, swimming pool

© Natalia Burak

As a response to technological advances, climate and economic changes. The adaptation concept also aimed to bring life back to the former Sopot Art Bay facility and adapt the building to new needs.

The project called for the development of a space that would stimulate the adaptation process for people with anxiety by taking advantage of its location in the Tri-City waterfront strip. The building of the former Bay symbolically combines two worlds: water and land, which determined the choice of materials and colors to seamlessly combine them in the middle of the building. By introducing water elements into the interior, I attempted to change the perception of danger through therapeutic, relaxation and sensory stimulation techniques. I also focused on the approach of gradually experiencing the space and the process of exposing the individual to the fear factor.

sauna

sauna

© Natalia Burak

Taking care of the comfort of the users, trying to make the best use of the available space and because of the low ceiling, I proposed a place to relax in the form of recessed sofas, placed in niches in the floor with access to the bar. One of the niches was filled with sand of different textures, along with sensory poufs. The centerpiece of the facility, however, is a water basin area with swings attached above it and loungers inserted into it, allowing users to gradually explore the environment in a controlled and enjoyable way. Next to it are two massage rooms with a suspended ceiling with a starry sky effect. And all of this is seen directly from the sauna, which opens a perspective on the entire recreation area.

pokój masażu

massage room

© Natalia Burak

As part of taming the aquatic environment, a room has also been arranged, where one can experience simulated exploration of the underwater world thanks to virtual reality technology, as well as a space for organizing lectures and presentations of vessels. The whole is crowned by a winter garden with a glass cover for organizing art exhibitions and thematic events.

przekrój A-A

cross-section A-A

© Natalia Burak

The subtle introduction of water into the interiors is also intended to show the benefits of the water environment as a form of escape from the stresses commonly surrounding us, encourage exploration, and exploit the recreational and tourist potential. It is intended that the concept of such a space could also become a starting point for future projects that will set out to combat various types of fears, phobias or disorders.

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Illustrations: © Author.

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