A Feminist Factory for Women's Health
This studio project started in response to the Government’s Women’s Health Strategy policy. The system failed to put women at the heart of health-care research, resulting in underrepresentation in clinical trials, therefore a lack of knowledge in conditions that affect women.
After inspiration from feminist and urbanisation workshops, the general masterplan design is a reimagined version of Le Corbusier’s Radiant City where the hierarchy of zones have been eradicated to create an inclusive and integrated city. However, I do not believe the ‘perfect city’ can exist as I believe architecture should respond to problems. Therefore, the masterplan has evolved into a hybrid site between the reimagined Radiant City and Salford as it has significant regional disparities in health-care resources for women.
The project aims to challenge the pathogenic approach to health-care design: breaking the disconnect between those who design the spaces and those who use them. My scheme aspires to be a model of the Maggie’s Centres – demonstrating how this ‘factory’ can become a mainstream scheme, reaching out to all women.
There are three main features: the curved building which metaphorically hugs around the site – symbolising the areas of support in this space. Fully glazed reflective windows create dialogue between the internal and external, guiding the user to the immersive and fragrant landscape. This juxtaposes with the linear factory area which is methodically designed to encourage a trickling transition of knowledge from the second floor (research area) to the ground floor (café), where the public can start the important conversations. Both contrasting zones find harmony in their shared interactions with the landscape, creating a sense of healing and belonging.
Overall, I have been motivated in this design process as I have deep interests in urban design, inclusive design and providing facilities for women to feel safe and listened to.
