Abstract
This study aimed to analyze health promotion villages from the perspective of therapeutic architecture, and to provide basic information for planning relevant health facilities. On the basis of a review of previous literature, the characteristics of therapeutic architecture were classified into eight categories: safety, comfort, sociality, autonomy, openness, diversity, privacy, and natural environment. Field study and observation were performed in four health promotion villages that conduct programs for lifestyle improvement, physical fitness, and treatment; these villages were also considered to have a healthy residential environment. The researcher and three assistants visited the facilities and checked utilization of space through interviews with the staff and guided tours. Basic information about the subject facilities, such as the purpose of establishment, was gathered from websites before visits. Two of the villages examined in this study had a traditional Korean wooden structure, while the other two were reinforced concrete and masonry block structures. All the facilities emphasized the use of environmentally friendly material and harmony with nature. Each site was divided into the following areas: office, residence, health/treatment, public/rest, and outdoor. The safety standards of the healing architecture were not completely satisfactory at all facilities. In particular, it was found that they lacked adequate universal design equipment. However, the healing characteristics of autonomy and diversity were strong. With regard to autonomy, the facilities allowed visitors to select indoor-outdoor moving lines and the use of front- and backyards constructed on slopes. In addition, they were equipped with many entries, staircases, void, terraces, and crossroads. The architecture was aesthetically designed using feng shui symbolism, and visitors found the scenes depicted in various spaces in the villages to be stimulating. Besides, the facilities were constructed using natural materials, had a natural indoor environment, and provided a sense of spaciousness and flexibility.
