Architecture of Selected Psychiatric Day Centres – a Case Study

Of all healthcare facilities, psychiatric facilities are a special case where a focus on the mental wellbeing of patients is crucial. This is influenced by the architecture itself, which can reinforce or offset feelings of stigma or isolation. The subjects of this study were three contemporary day psychiatric centres located in Europe. They are a very important part of the hospital structure, providing access to psychiatric treatment for those continuing treatment after a hospital stay or for patients who do not require inpatient treatment. The aim of this research was to present the architectural features of the most interesting contemporary day centres and their general characteristics. The research is a case study of two facilities from France and one from Spain. Despite their small scale, they present unconventional solutions in terms of shaping the building form, where patient comfort comes first. Greenery, natural materials in the interiors, adequate access to natural light, colour schemes and art elements in the interiors were key elements of these facilities. In addition to an inclusive location, the functional-spatial layout of these centres is transparent and creates welcoming spaces adapted to human scale and needs, offsetting feelings of institutionalism, stigmatization or alienation.