Sensory aspects of the built environment: Creating a sense of well-being in supportive housing

Squires, S., Giammarino, R., Grittner, A., & Walsh, C.A. (2023, June). Sensory aspects of the built environment: Creating a sense of well-being in supportive housing [digital short film]. Environmental Design Research Association, Mexico City, Mexico.    

Abstract

Much of the literature around accessibility in supportive housing (SH) environments has been primarily focused on the physiological needs of habitants. A relative paucity of scholarship exists on the sensory experiences of people accessing SH, despite the impact sensory experiences have on psychological and emotional well-being (Bhuyan & Yuen, 2022; Lehman, 2011; Trivic, 2021). Built environments that address the effects of sensory input can increase accessibility (Cushing & Miller, 2020), improve the mental and physical health outcomes of occupants (Bayramzadeh et al, 2021; Bhuyan & Yuen, 2022; Trivic, 2021) and promote feelings of well-being (Altomonte et al, 2020; Lehman, 2011). Considering that those who access SH are more likely to experience mental health difficulties (Onapa et al., 2021; Toronto Mental Health and Addictions Access Point., 2018), the importance of creating sensory environments that optimize habitants’ mental health is paramount.

As part of the Aging in the Right Place (AIRP) Partnership - a SSHRC-CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) funded five-year cross-Canada interdisciplinary inquiry investigating housing options for older adults with experiences of homelessness - environmental audits were conducted in three SH locations in Calgary, Canada. These environmental audits evaluated the built environments in relationship with the lived experience of SH residents.  In addition, residents engaged in photo-voice interviews exploring their experiences of aging in place within SH. Photovoice is a participatory action research strategy, where participants take photos and share stories associated with their photography. Thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) was conducted on the participant interviews. Findings indicated that a variety of sensory aspects, particularly noise, light, clutter, and beauty, were present in the built SH environment and played a role in the well-being of participants.

Combining pictures from the environmental audits and Photovoice, alongside quotes from the interviews and excerpts concerning sensory experiences of SH, this digital short story will highlight how sensory aspects of the built environment impact the experiences of people accessing SH. The digital short will provoke and invite viewers to consider both the need and the how for SH built environments to be created and operated reflecting user-centered sensory design.

References

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