Maternity embodies the essence of creation and continuity, holding profound significance on our planet. It signifies the genesis of life, a cycle that perpetuates through generations, shaping societies and civilizations. Beyond its biological import, maternity encompasses nurturing, compassion, and resilience, which are fundamental for individual well-being and the planet's sustainability. Maternity also fosters interconnectedness, as each child born becomes not just part of a family but a member of the larger human family, highlighting the universal bond of humanity.
My thesis seeks to explore the intricate dynamics within healthcare facilities, examining the perspectives of patients and medical professionals while considering the historical backdrop of childbirth within a village setting. The primary objective of my thesis is to confront the increasing maternal mortality rates in the United States by examining the pivotal junction of healthcare infrastructure and maternal health. This entails conceptualizing a "birth village" that not only revolutionizes the childbirth journey, creating a more nurturing and therapeutic ambiance through biophilic design, but also places a strong emphasis on the comprehensive wellness of patients / Master of Architecture / In the tapestry of existence, parenthood emerges as a cornerstone, weaving threads of care, guidance, and endurance into the fabric of society. It symbolizes the dawn of new beginnings, a symphony of life's continuity echoed through the ages. Parenthood transcends mere biology, embodying empathy, fortitude, and adaptability—qualities indispensable to personal growth and the sustainability of our collective journey. Parents serve as architects of tomorrow, imparting wisdom, empathy, and affection to their offspring, thereby nurturing the emergence of conscientious global citizens. Moreover, parenthood cultivates a sense of belonging, as each child born becomes a nexus of familial ties and a vital thread in the intricate tapestry of humanity, underscoring the innate unity that binds us all.
However, alongside the joy and significance of maternity, it is crucial to acknowledge the physical and emotional challenges women often endure during this transformative period. The pain experienced during childbirth is a testament to women's strength and resilience, yet it also underscores the need for comprehensive support systems, access to quality healthcare, and respect for women's choices in maternity care. Recognizing the importance of maternity extends to global initiatives aimed at promoting health, education, and equality, ensuring harmonious coexistence and a thriving planet for generations to come.
With maternal mortality rates on the rise in the USA, the need for innovative and holistic solutions in healthcare architecture has never been more pressing. My research aims to understand the multifaceted dynamics of healthcare facilities by analyzing the experiences of both patients and medical professionals through interactions with doctors and health professionals in existing maternity hospitals and birth villages in India.
My thesis aims to develop a maternal hospital that integrates the concept of a birthing village with modern healthcare facilities, incorporating biophilic elements into maternity care settings. It aims to pinpoint areas within contemporary healthcare infrastructures where community-centric support akin to traditional village setups can be integrated. Furthermore, the project endeavors to exalt the sanctity of childbirth and childcare, tackling architectural challenges to mitigate unnecessary cesarean deliveries.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:VTETD/oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/119508 |
| Date | 25 June 2024 |
| Creators | Srinivasan, Tharun Bhalaji |
| Contributors | Architecture, Jones, James R., Gipe, Andrew, Ishida, Aki |
| Publisher | Virginia Tech |
| Source Sets | Virginia Tech Theses and Dissertation |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | ETD, application/pdf |
| Rights | In Copyright, http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ |
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