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Chrysalis: A Reintegration Centre at Liverpool Docks

Part 1 Project 2024
Poppy Fone
Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool | UK
Chrysalis, located on the docks in Liverpool, aims to provide a non-hostile space for individuals dealing with mental health issues or those recently discharged from mental health facilities. While offering therapies like art therapy and meditation classes, the centre’s primary programme is floatation therapy. This therapy helps people with PTSD and those with reduced sensory connections by allowing gentle movements during floatation sessions, which can create sensory experiences.

Chrysalis is designed to focus on biophilic principles, aiming to create a healing atmosphere for visitors. Unlike the typical design of mental health facilities, which can feel clinical, Chrysalis challenges this approach. Rather than treating mental health as if it were a physical injury, the centre recognises the significant impact the environment can have on individuals dealing with mental health issues. Therefore, Chrysalis strives to provide a comforting and supportive space.

Beyond the programmatic benefits, visitors can enjoy views of the waterfront on different levels (from public on the ground floor to private upper levels) whilst wandering in a forest and experiencing the benefits of vegetation in a protected environment, pragmatically (from the wind) and metaphorically from the intensity of urban living. Chrysalis becomes a place to retreat, heal and develop.


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2024
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