Incorporating Biophilic & Trauma-Informed Design into In-Patient Healthcare Clinics for Teenage Girls Experiencing Anorexia Nervosa

This research study explores and investigates how utilizing biophilic design and trauma-informed design in the design development of an in-patient healthcare clinic, can foster the support of the physical and mental health and well-being of teenage girls experiencing Anorexia Nervosa. The research connects factors in the consideration of the frameworks developed to cultivate a healing environment. This study examined the healing effects of Biophilia to the human body through the emotional connection people experience with nature. Additionally, research within this investigation involved utilzing the significance of treating individuals with Anorexia Nervosa; a psychiatric disorder, with the acknowledgment of trauma through trauma-informed design being reflected in the built environment. Literature reviews explored in this study reflected on the current state of knowledge of biophilic design and trauma-informed design, and the scope of anorexia nervosa; focused on teenage girls. To further investigate the research done through literature reviews, different approaches in collecting data had been identified and explored. This led to a field visit, and interviews took place involving participants in the interior design industry, as well as healthcare, biophilic design, and trauma-informed design experts. This led the study by gaining current knowledge from interdisciplinary professionals in the fields involved in this study. The results of this study indicate the efforts of biophilic design, trauma-informed design, and the treatment approach, through an abundance of research. This study discussed some limitations such as outdated research and the topics’ sensitivity. Ultimately, further recommendations and illustrations are presented in this study, the exploration of preliminary development processes are presented.