Architecture therapy: principles of designing and shaping space in centres for cancer patients, based on the architecture of Maggie's Centres

This paper presents a study on the architecture created for the needs of Maggie's, a charity organisation, whose main aim since 1995 has been the creation of facilities (centres) for the short_term stay of cancer patients and their families without accommodation options. The main purpose of Maggie's facilities is to provide patients and their loved ones with a sense of home security and peace during hospital therapies. This paper discusses several centres, located all over the world, as well as the features of shaping space common to the presented examples as determined. Their architectural layouts were analysed with a focus on patient needs and activity. Based on the designs of Maggie's Centres, we identified basic principles of design and interior arrangement that can be used in other medical buildings and those that require their patients to maintain a high degree of psychophysical comfort. This paper presents evidence of the importance of a homely atmosphere in healthcare settings.