Youth Counselling Center of Bed-Stuy

In the heart of northern Brooklyn, the small neighborhood of Bedford-Stuyvesant boasts a distinct and thriving culture, supported by the fierce loyalty of over 150,000 residents. Through in-depth research, a serious issue of childhood absence from school was identified, indicating serious factors affecting the children of Bed Stuy’s education.

From looking at the overall statistic for Bed Stuy, there are some areas of curriculums that appear to be lacking. To tackle some issues the community requires a more complete education that focuses on sexual and reproductive health, fitness and nutrition, and drug and alcohol education to hopefully reduce problems like drug abuse, teen pregnancy, and obesity. Another way that education could benefit the community is more opportunities for adolescents to work with career service programs or be exposed to more job training experience outside of school. In addition, Bed Stuy could use more green space. It will improve air quality as well as the mood of people in the community.

The intention of this node, therefore, is to provide a welcoming and safe environment for the youth of Bed-Stuy to receive counselling and beneficial social engagement. Nestled among historic brownstones, the site is located at the epicenter of the residential district and stretched across three lots. The main axis features a dynamic, interactive mural wall and social lounge, encouraging students to engage in the healthy social activities.

Private counselling spaces and a large group area disrupt the hall’s linearity with vibrant protruding walls, drawing the eye towards the areas of meaningful gathering. Nature is intrinsically incorporated into the form and function, creating calming and rejuvenating atmospheres that guarantee Bed’s Study youngest will return and truly benefit from the Youth Wellness Center.

Design 6 - spring 2017

Team Members:

Nazanin Selehnia, Bridget Sax

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