capstone 21’

Project Brief

2020 brought a lot of unexpected changes. As COVID-19 spread, everyday routines shifted almost overnight. Social distancing, masks, and staying home became the new normal, changing how we interacted with one another and the spaces around us.

While staying home was meant to keep people safe, it wasn't a safe place for everyone. The pandemic brought increased attention to domestic abuse and the challenges faced by those living with an abusive partner. This became the foundation of my capstone project, where I explored how design could help create safer spaces for those experiencing intimate partner violence.

The first step in developing my capstone was understanding who I was designing for. I spent months researching the healthcare experience, particularly why people avoid going to the doctor or seeking medical care, and how design could help address those concerns.

My research also focused on gender discrimination in medical settings and the challenges faced by individuals experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV). From there, I identified key user groups and developed user profiles to better understand their goals, frustrations, and everyday needs.

Despite their different backgrounds and experiences, I found that these users were looking for many of the same things from healthcare: support, community, empathy, and comfort.

This research led me to one overarching question: How might we transform healthcare into something people actually look forward to?

Our health is one of the most important things we have, so why shouldn't we feel good about taking care of it?

Site selection played an important role in developing my capstone. I chose 1801 Elm Street in Over-the-Rhine (OTR), a four-story building located directly across from Findlay Market. I was drawn to this location for several reasons - its lively, community-focused atmosphere, proximity to women's centers in downtown Cincinnati, and the building's abundance of natural daylight and unique architectural character.

After selecting the site, I conducted a demographic analysis of the OTR neighborhood and compared my findings with data on intimate partner violence (IPV) to better understand the surrounding community. This research helped inform the direction of the project and supported my decision to use this location. I also developed a site map to highlight the building and its surrounding context.

With the neighborhood's strong retail presence, I saw an opportunity to bring elements of retail design into the space, creating a more approachable and familiar environment for its users.

After months of research and exploring different ideas, I developed the concept for my capstone: Renewal. Centered around the idea of healing, starting fresh, and taking control of your health and well-being.

Renewal is a women-centered health clinic designed to support both physical and emotional health. Rather than feeling like a traditional medical facility, the goal was to create a more welcoming and personal healthcare experience where women feel comfortable, supported, and empowered to take care of themselves.

Natural materials, integrated greenery, and carefully considered lighting create a warm, welcoming environment. The tall, open ceiling structure serves as a focal point in the main gathering area, while simpler design elements throughout the clinic help maintain a calm, comfortable atmosphere.