First year A+H students are very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with local businesswomen Amber and Alex Arnold to provide programming and pre-design services for a freestanding birthcenter and luxurious postnatal retreat in Greenville, SC. This culturally sensitive and inclusive space is centered on healthy and supportive bonding experiences for new moms and their babies.
Working under the guidance of Architect and Assistant Professor Lyndsey Deaton, PhD in the practicum-based course Programming and Predesign we will learn how to work with real clients on a real project! Each student will contribute to the team and to the project in a specific role, providing valuable experience in professional teamwork. We started by conducting research through project precedents, interviews with medical professionals and hospitality specialists, and surveys with pregnant women and new moms. As shown in the images above, we analyzed a few plots in a local planned development and recommended a site. Next, we will plan and facilitate a design charrette with project stakeholders including investors, practitioners, and pregnant women in March. Finally, we will compile all of our research and design recommendations into a Program of Requirements.
We are grateful for this opportunity to work with a local client and contribute to such an exciting new project in the Upstate community!
