Grace Taylor
Grace is a dedicated, detail-oriented interior design student. She is motivated by opportunities for challenging and purposeful work, learning, and problem-solving. For her 4th-year thesis project, she has researched, published, and designed a resource centre for pregnant and parenting young adults between the ages of 18 to 24.
Project Overview
Adjusting to the variety of mental, physical, financial, and social changes of parenthood, in addition to the existing circumstances that young adults may already be experiencing, can evoke a sense of instability and uncertainty. Unity House aims to address and support the users' needs through trauma-informed and inclusive design, while also exploring prospect-refuge theory. Developing design solutions through modular and accessible strategies is crucial to a successful and empathetic centre. Inspired by the idea of "form following feeling," the two-floor design uses the concept of "symbiosis", where distinct yet interconnected functions correspond harmoniously, creating a cohesive and supportive environment.
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Parti Diagramming
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Equity, Empathy, and Environment Conceptual Framework
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Diagramming & Conceptual Sketches
Concept/Design Process
Building on the idea of "form following feeling," the design concept revolves around "symbiosis", a term denoting a close, mutualistic association between different species where all parties benefit despite their differences. In visually exploring symbiosis, these conceptual diagrams laid the groundwork for the overall spatial plan development, while emphasizing the alignment of space with users' emotional needs.
The Equity, Empathy, and Environment conceptual framework serves as the summarized focal point of the design. It places families and community in the centre, as the users are the foundation for the design research and execution. The surrounding layers represent the elements of well-being, along with the three main contexts that were frequently referenced while implementing the researched design solutions. The five core design values establish the overall qualities that have significant psychological, physical, and visual impacts on the users.
Site Plan/Floor Plan(s)
The site for Unity House, situated at 21 Ossington Avenue in downtown Toronto, was carefully selected for its proximity to a diverse range of users, representing various backgrounds and experiences. The site's strategic location aims to ensure easy accessibility for users, providing convenient access to the centre and fostering a sense of closeness to home.
The floor plans were developed based on a comprehensive functional program, with the main entrance prioritizing privacy and safety, particularly for those from sensitive or unsafe backgrounds. The first floor serves as a hub for all users, offering amenities such as secure personal storage, a consultation office, a nursing room, and a central welcome centre. It also features a daycare, outdoor playground, indoor courtyard, and library. The second floor caters to young adults/parents with counselling, educational, social, financial, and legal aid offices, a multi-purpose room, a wellness supplies shop, and a multi-faith room.
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Ground Floor Plan
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Second Floor Plan
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Site Plan
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Overall Building Section
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Welcome & Touchdown
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Childcare & Wellness
Sections/Elevations
The sections and elevation views demonstrate the relationship between vertical spaces and the building's structure, offering insights into their integration.
Through these perspectives, the three main types of spatial experiences are examined, maximizing the utilization of spaces and optimizing design features to their fullest potential.
3D Views
The Welcome and Arrival spaces in the design ensure a friendly and inclusive entry point, eliminating any sense of intimidation for visitors. Meanwhile, the strategically located Touchdown spaces offer users ample opportunities to rest and recharge throughout their visit, promoting comfort and well-being. Meanwhile, the Touchdown spaces provide opportunities for users to relax and rejuvenate during their visit, enhancing comfort and well-being.
The Childcare and Onsite Supervision facilities offer parents peace of mind, enabling them to engage in centre activities confidently, while also ensuring children's safety and nurture. These facilities serve as a convenient solution for parents in need of temporary childcare assistance onsite. Additionally, the Wellness and Stimulation spaces provide children with enriching activities and access to educational tools, while the second floor offers essential support services for young adults, coupled with a versatile multi-purpose area for various events and celebrations.
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Welcome & Touchdown
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Childcare & Onsite Supervision
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Wellness & Stimulation
Poster
The final posters serve as comprehensive representations of the entire research and design project. Each poster uniquely contributes to the design narrative, offering valuable insights, including a detailed technical development analysis, collectively providing a holistic view of the project.
