Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

HEALING SPACES REINTEGRATION CENTRE FOR WOMEN, THRISSUR

BY IRENE TONY
CAT18AR047

Submitted to the Department of Architecture in partial fulfilment of the

requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Architecture at College of Architecture
Trivandrum.

Under the guidance of

Asst Prof. CHARUDATHAN M.B

BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE
APJ ABDUL KALAM TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
June 2023.

C.A.T
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM
Mulayara P.O, Thiruvananthapuram.

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 1 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

HEALING SPACES REINTEGRATION CENTRE FOR WOMEN,

THRISSUR

Submitted by

IRENE TONY
CAT18AR047

Under the guidance of

Asst Prof. CHARUDATHAN M. B

B. ARCH. THESIS
June 2023

C.A.T
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM
Mulayara P.O, Thiruvananthapuram
This thesis is the property of the institution and the author and shall not be reproduced without prior permission.

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 2 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

© 2023 Irene Tony. All rights reserved.

© 2023 College of Architecture Trivandrum. All rights reserved.
The author hereby grants to C.A.T, permission to reproduce and to distribute publicly paper
and electronic copies of this thesis document in whole or in part in any medium now known
or hereafter created.

C.A.T
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM
Mulayara P.O, Thiruvananthapuram.

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 3 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

Irene Tony
B.Arch. Thesis 2023
Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

APPROVAL

The following study is hereby approved as a creditable work on the subject, carried

out and presented in a manner sufficiently satisfactory to warrant its acceptance as

B.Arch. Thesis, a prerequisite to the B.Arch. Degree program, for which it has been

submitted.

It is to be understood that by this approval, the undersigned do not necessarily endorse

or approve the statements made, opinions expressed or conclusions drawn therein,

but approve the study only for the purpose for which it has been submitted and

satisfies as to the requirement laid down in the academic programme.

Thesis Guide Thesis Committee Head of the

Chairperson Department

Ar. Charudathan M. B Ar. Sheeja K P Ar. Induja V

Designation Professor Professor

Date: Date: Date:

Internal Examiner: External Examiner:

Date: Date:

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 4 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that Miss. Irene Tony has worked under my supervision on ‘Healing

Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur’ towards the partial fulfilment of the

requirement for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Architecture of APJ ABDUL

KALAM TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY. This is her original work and can be submitted

as a B.Arch. Thesis report.

Thiruvananthapuram Ar. Charudathan M.B

June 2023 Designation

Signature:

Date:

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 5 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the Thesis titled “Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for

Women, Thrissur” was carried out by me during the year 2023 in partial fulfilment of

the requirement for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Architecture of APJ ABDUL

KALAM TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY. This Thesis is my own effort and has not been

submitted to any other University.

Thiruvananthapuram Irene Tony

June 2023
Signature:

Date:

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 6 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my guide Charudathan M.B, Assistant professor
at College of Architecture, Trivandrum for the constant support and encouragement that
resulted in the successful completion of this dissertation, and for his valuable suggestions,
guidance and timely help.
I extend my gratitude to Principal Prof Neena Thomas and HOD Prof. Induja V., Trivandrum
for providing the facilities required to complete my research and for their constant support and
encouragement.
I am grateful to various Architects, Civil Engineers, psychologists and counsellors who
provided me with valuable information for my thesis.
I am also obliged to my Parents and friends for their relentless support.
Above all, I thank Almighty for his blessings that helped in the timely completion of this thesis.

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 7 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 8 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

HEALING SPACES REINTEGRATION CENTRE FOR WOMEN, THRISSUR

BY IRENE TONY

SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE AT COLLEGE OF
ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM.

ABSTRACT

Keywords: reintegration, healing through spaces,

Reintegration centre for women are facilities that provide support for female individuals who
have been involved in criminal activities to successfully reintegrate into society. The centre aim
to address the unique challenges faced by women in the criminal justice system, including
issues related to substance abuse, trauma, and poverty. The goal is to reduce the risk of
recidivism and help women lead productive and fulfilling lives. The centre offers a range of
services, including education and job training, substance abuse treatment, mental health
support, and life skills development. These services help women acquire the skills and
knowledge they need to find and maintain employment and address any underlying issues
that may contribute to criminal behaviour. Using design elements in the built environment to
support the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of individuals who are
undergoing the reintegration process. This concept recognizes the important role that
architecture and design can play in promoting healing and recovery and aims to create spaces
that are safe, supportive, and empowering for individuals who have been involved in criminal
activities. In conclusion, healing through spaces in play a crucial role in promoting the physical,
emotional, and psychological well-being of individuals who are undergoing the reintegration
process. By creating environments that are safe, supportive, and empowering, reintegration
centre can help individuals successfully reintegrate into society and lead fulfilling lives.

THESIS GUIDE: AR. CHARUDATHAN M.B

DESIGNATION: PROF./ ASSOC PROF. / ASST PROF.

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 9 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 10 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

Life after prison can be a difficult transition for women, as they face numerous challenges in
their quest for successful reintegration into society. One of the key challenges faced by female
convicts is stigma and discrimination, which can limit their access to essential services such
as housing, education, and employment. Women who have been incarcerated may also lack
access to quality healthcare, including medical and mental health services, which can impact
their physical and mental well-being. In addition, many women struggle to establish supportive
relationships with family, friends, and community members, leading to feelings of isolation and
loneliness. The lack of educational and vocational opportunities can also make it difficult for
women to achieve financial independence and stability. All of these challenges can increase
the risk of recidivism and undermine the overall health and well-being of female convicts.

1.1: Aim
The aim of reintegration centres for women is to provide support and resources to female
convicts as they transition from prison life back into the community. These centres aim to
help women overcome the challenges they face, including stigma and discrimination, lack of
access to healthcare, education, and employment, and limited support from family and
community members. The ultimate goal of reintegration centres is to promote successful and
sustainable reintegration, helping women become productive and self-sufficient members of
society. This can reduce the risk of recidivism and improve the overall health and well-being
of female convicts and their families.

1.2: Research Questions

1. How can architectural design and space planning support the reintegration process
for female convicts?
2. What are the key physical and social needs of female convicts in reintegration centres,
and how can these needs be addressed through architectural design and space
planning?
3. How can reintegration centres for women be designed to promote a sense of
community and support, while also addressing privacy and security concerns?
4. What is the impact of the built environment on the mental and physical health of female
convicts in reintegration centres?

1.3: Need
1. Female convicts face unique challenges to successful reintegration, including stigma
and discrimination, limited access to education and employment, and a lack of
supportive relationships.
2. Without adequate support, women are at a higher risk of recidivism, which has
negative impacts on public safety and the criminal justice system.
3. Reintegration centres can provide a range of services and support, including
vocational training, education, healthcare, and social support, to help women
overcome barriers to reintegration.
4. Reintegration centres provide a safe and secure environment where women can begin
to rebuild their lives and develop the skills and resources needed to succeed.
5. Reintegration centres play a critical role in supporting the successful and sustainable
reintegration of female convicts, reducing the risk of recidivism and improving the
health and well-being of women and their families.

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 11 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

1.4: Objectives
1. Safe and secure environment
2. Skill development and support
3. Education and employment opportunities
4. Health care and mental health services
5. Substance abuse support
6. Positive self-image and confidence building
7. Legal support and guidance
8. Community building and support
9. Access to housing and resources
10. Purpose and meaning development.

1.5: Scope and Limitation

1. Limited resources and funding
2. Geographical location
3. Lack of awareness
4. Stigma and discrimination
5. Limited services
6. Resistance to change
7. Cultural barriers.

1.6: Rationale and Justification

1. Addresses trauma and abuse
2. Empowers women
3. Promotes health and well-being
4. Addresses substance abuse
5. Reduces homelessness
6. Prevents recidivism
7. Supports community building
8. Promotes sustainable change
9. Addresses social and economic issues.

1.7: Methodology

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 12 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 13 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

2.1 Research Books and Papers Identified

• Pattern Language by Christopher Alexander
• Designing the Therapeutic Space: Using Layout, Colour, and Other Elements to Get
Patients in the Right Frame of Mind by Nicola Davies, PhD
• Soothing spaces and healing spaces: Is there an ideal counselling room? Pearson, M.,
& Wilson, H. (2012)

2.2 Criteria for selection of these books. Learnings based on selected literature

2.3 Pattern Language by Christopher Alexander

Pattern Language by Christopher Alexander shows that it is a powerful tool for creating
sustainable and human-centered designs, with a holistic approach to design. Studies have
found positive results, including increased user satisfaction and improved functionality.
However, it still faces challenges such as complexity and subjectivity. Further research and
refinement of the methodology is needed to realize its full potential.

2.3 Designing the Therapeutic Space: Using Layout, Colour, and Other Elements
to Get Patients in the Right Frame of Mind by Nicola Davies, PhD
The book examines the function of design in developing therapeutic environments that can
encourage healing and well-being for patients. The book provides step-by-step instructions on
how to employ numerous design components, including layout, colour, texture, and lighting,
to make spaces that promote psychological and emotional well-being. The book is divided
into three sections, with the first giving an outline of the therapeutic design concepts and
examining the effects that various design components can have on patients' psychological
and emotional states. The second section focuses on the design of specific places within a
therapeutic environment, while the third piece offers practical advice on how to put a
therapeutic design approach into action in real-world contexts. Overall, the book is a
comprehensive guide to the role of design in creating therapeutic environments that can
promote healing and well-being, and it is appropriate for designers, therapists, healthcare
professionals, and anyone interested in creating environments that support emotional and
psychological well-being.

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 14 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

2.4 Pearson, M., & Wilson, H. (2012). Soothing spaces and healing places: Is
there an ideal counselling room design? Psychotherapy in Australia
This qualitative study explores what difference a counselling room can make to the work
between counsellor and client. Early and recent research relevant to the influence of the
workspace on health practitioners and counsellors and their clients is reviewed. A focus
group was used to formulate a questionnaire on counsellor perceptions of the contribution
of their designated counselling space to the work with clients. Questionnaires were
distributed to professional counsellors around Australia. Thirty-four responses were
received and analysed for major and minor themes. Emerging themes from the data were
compared with the literature. A range of ideal attributes was indicated, including
preferences for larger work spaces, natural light, use of aesthetically pleasing decor, and
provision for clients to have choice in seating.

2.5 Learnings and inferences identified from the literature reviews

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 15 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

CHAPTER 3
BASIC DATA AND BACKGROUND STUDIES

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 16 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

3.1 Definitions and descriptions

Reintegration
Reintegration is a multidimensional process enabling individuals to re-establish the economic,
social and psychosocial relationships needed to maintain life, livelihood and dignity and
achieve inclusion in civic life.

3.2 Existing Data

Women Prison & Correctional Homes are meant for confining women offenders sentenced to
undergo imprisonment irrespective of tenure and all Remand / Undertrial women prisoners.
Three Women Prison & Correctional Homes are situated at Thiruvananthapuram, Viyyur and
Kannur.

Current scenario
Women face many challenges after being released from prison, including stigma and
discrimination,
lack of resources, family separation, and mental health and trauma. These challenges can
make it difficult for them to reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives.

However, there are programs and organizations that provide support and resources to help

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 17 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

women overcome these barriers and successfully reintegrate into their communities.

It is important for society to address these challenges and provide the necessary support to
help women rebuild their lives.

This, in addition to personal hardships and the stigma of having been incarcerated, makes it
challenging for former inmates to reintegrate into the community, achieve financial stability,
access proper health care, and foster healthy relationships, which inevitably harms their
overall health and well-being.

For many, the painful experiences of incarceration are hard to forget, too, and can have lasting
mental health effects. You may have endured solitary confinement, abuse, deprivation, harsh
living conditions, and elevated levels of stress and anxiety. You may have also adapted to life
inside prison, adjusting your schedule, routines, and behaviours to fit the norms, which
suddenly change upon your release.

Different Schemes by Government

• Navareksha
• Self-employment scheme for dependents of prisoners
• Marriage Assistance to daughters of prisoners
• Educational Assistance to Children of Prisoners
• Financial Assistance to Ex-Convicts, Probationers and Ex-Pupils

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 18 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

CHAPTER 4
CASE STUDIES

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 19 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

4.1 Women Empowerment Centre, Rwanda

Architects: Sharon Davis Design
Location: Kayonza, Rwanda
Project Year: 2014
Area: 2200 sqm

The Women’s Opportunity Center (WOC) is a multi-use facility developed by Women for
Women International (WfWI) as a center for learning, commerce, partnership, and progress for
women and the community. In the context of post-genocide Rwanda, the WOC empowers
women by providing them with a permanent haven for gathering, a safe environment for
learning, the opportunity to acquire job skills, and outlets to market goods, manage a business,
and fuel the local economy.

Its circular forms radiate outward, from intimate classrooms at the center of the site to a
community space, farmer's market, and the civic realm beyond.
The center’s circular structures are modeled after the historic King’s Palace in southern
Rwanda, whose woven-reed dwellings were part of an indigenous tradition that the region
had all but lost.
This design draws on the delicacy of this vernacular Rwandan construction method with
rounded, perforated brick walls that allow for passive cooling and solar shading, while
maintaining a sense of privacy.

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 20 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

CHAPTER 5
SITE STUDY AND ANALYSIS

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 21 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

5.1 Site
LOCATION: Viyyur, Thrissur, Kerala
COORDINATES:10.564225934504293 N 76.22702424765141 E
SITE AREA: 13 Acres (52609.1 sqm)

1.1 Site Context

Institutional context

• Governmental
-Central prison
-District prison
-AIR Studio
-Dooradharshan
-Police academy

• Educational

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 22 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

-Governmental Engineering College

-Vimala College
-GVHSS Ramavarmapuram
-Government Training Center

• Accessibility
-Major entry from Doordharshan Kendra Road
-Near SH-22
- 4 km from Swaraj Round

Climatic Data

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 23 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

In Trichūr, the wet season is overcast, the dry season is partly cloudy, and it is hot and
oppressive year round. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from
73°F to 94°F and is rarely below 69°F or above 97°F.

Based on the beach/pool score, the best time of year to visit Trichūr for hot-weather activities
is from early December to late February.

The hot season lasts for 3.0 months, from February 8 to May 7, with an average daily high
temperature above 92°F. The hottest month of the year in Trichūr is April, with an average
high of 93°F and low of 79°F.

The cool season lasts for 3.5 months, from June 12 to September 28, with an average daily
high temperature below 86°F. The coldest month of the year in Trichūr is July, with an
average low of 75°F and high of 84°F.

Topography

The proposed site is relatively flat with minor dips. The area to the east of the site is in higher
elevations The region to the north- east are in higher Elevations(raised level). The site has
gentle slopes The site is under Government. Building in the surrounding context are placed
with respect to the contour levels.

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 24 of 25

 Healing Spaces Reintegration Centre for Women, Thrissur

Drainage

Site has a natural drain along the main access road. This drain is connected to peechi water
canal.

Vegetation

Site is filled with wide variety of indigenous plants, which includes acacia, mango tree Banyan
trees etc, few aging up to 50 years. The region to the south of the site is open and is exposed
to the sun due to the absence of vegetation in the region.
The region to the west is shaded due to the presence of vegetation experiences shade.

Sunpath

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE TRIVANDRUM Page 25 of 25