Veronika Blitek - "Biophilic Stress Reducer".

29 of October '20

Biophilic Stress Reducer

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Technical data

Type:	undergraduate thesis
Year of defense:	2019
Name:	"BIOPHILIC STRESS REDUCER. REVITALIZATION OF A HISTORIC MILL IN MYDLNIKI".
Author:	Weronika Blitek
University:	{University}
Promoters:	Prof. Dr. Elżbieta Pakuła-Kwak, Dr. Joanna Łapińska

In times of unrelenting stress, life in a hurry and hustle, increasing social pressures, I want to address the problems that have a direct impact on the significant decline in the length and quality of life of modern man. The main idea of the project was to create a space that is a kind of retreat - an oasis inspired by nature, which, according to numerous studies, is an antidote to stress.

Interior of the mill in Mydlniki

Through architecture and design treatments, I implement the postulates that make up the concept, which is biophilic design, one by one. The space offers the possibility of personalization, the function has not been imposed and concretized, because the process of coping with stress is an individual matter.

The main goal of biophilic design is to bring nature into our lives - not for the sake of form alone, but primarily for the positive effects it brings with it. Studies have proven that we need nature in our daily lives to reduce stress, on top of that it has a positive effect on our overall well-being and health. It improves our productivity and ability to think creatively. Nature also provides an opportunity to create a multi-layered space with healing properties for the soul and body. It can have a positive impact on people working remotely, who, due to the nature of their work, stay in the same rooms every day.

first floor plan

The mill I chose, located in Mydlniki, consists of two separate volumes connected to each other. Between the spaces there is a thick wall that effectively separates them. Due to the lack of interest in the building, the facility has taken on a life of its own. Vines planted years ago on the fence are spreading. Inspired by the lush, colorful vegetation climbing the facade of the building, which has become an integral part of it, I decided to fill the interiors with nature, which has been trying to invade for years.

floor plan

One of my assumptions was to unite people from different backgrounds, of different ages, and thus to adapt the building for the elderly and people with disabilities. The entrance to the main building has been equipped with a ramp for wheelchairs, and an elevator has been installed inside, providing free access to all areas. To unite the two separate spaces a "Box " was created - a glass structure with geometric divisions.

cross-sections A-A and D-D

Due to the layout of the mill, two zones were separated in the design - green and blue, corresponding to vegetation and water, respectively. The café located in the green zone, under the glass vault, was designed in an unusual way. Classic café furniture is replaced by Vitra's Alcove furniture. With comfortable sofas and armchairs, guests can relax, drink coffee, but also work.

Thanks to comfortable sofas and armchairs, guests can relax, drink coffee, but also work

The entire hygiene and sanitary complex was located in a corner, at the back of the building. The walls were finished with lacobel in a green-maroon color. The visitors' locker room was planned near the door, making it easily accessible from both zones. The women's toilet, which is connected to the toilet for people with disabilities, has been equipped with a changing table.

Due to extensive glazing, the green space also serves as a conservatory. Especially now, when the concentration of harmful dust exceeds all standards many times over, we need greenery that will produce clean air, act as a natural purifier.

Due to the extensive glazing, the green space also serves as a hothouse

In the blue zone, the most important element is the waterfall. The main inspiration for this powerful plane was the design of the Z58 building by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Mounted in the wall, the object is made of glass fragments glued together to prevent water splashing. The water flows into a corridor running around the room, surrounding visitors with a soothing hum.

Thanks to its multifunctionality and openness, the space is conducive to both work and relaxation. With nature influencing creativity and productivity, responsibilities such as remote work become a pleasure and take much less time. In addition, the Biophilic Stress Reducer does not discriminate - the facility is suitable for everyone. It is a creative spa located on the outskirts of the city.