Artist Biography
Nicole Olszewski is a graduating Interior Architecture student from Brewster, New York. She has always had a passion for the arts, as she has always been involved with dance, painting, and drawing. At Endicott, she was Vice President for EDGE (Endicott Dance Group) where she choreographed multiple dances and danced alongside many talented dancers. She also is in the Honors program at Endicott. Regarding internships, she has worked at Arcus Dev. Co. (NYC), Spivak Architects (NYC), and Winter Street Architects (Salem, MA). Each experience has worked to prepare her for life after graduation, which she is very excited about.
Thesis Abstract
Through research on the topic of mental health and the variety of treatments, the negative stigma on social acceptance of treatment became apparent. Understanding that the reason for this stigma is the lack of understanding on the topic is what warrants a direct response from society. Through intentional design, the goal of providing a safe, educational, and communal space that caters to the needs of all users can be achieved. Balance Psychiatric Care Facility is a center for the community, staff, patients, and support humans. Each user group is carefully considered through wayfinding and color. This space encourages the care of mental health while providing spaces for visitors as well. Comprehending the concept of destigmatization is important here. If more people are aware of what really goes on in therapy, the potential for an increase in users is greater. Educating the public and support humans on mental health treatment is a step in the right direction regarding decreasing the negative stigma towards mental health treatment. Within this facility, the goal is to make everyone feel safe and included. Connecting to the specific needs of patients while making their support and the community feel included as well is the key to an inclusive environment. Balance finds the middle ground and fuels the movement towards positive mental health growth.