An Investigation into the Effect of the Design of Residential Units on the Experience of Looked After Children in South Lanarkshire

The design of our physical environment has been shown to affect our behaviour and impact on our well-being. Children and young people in residential care have spoken tellingly about the impact of their environment in relation to their experience of care. An initiative by South Lanarkshire Council involved design consultants Graven Images in the redevelopment of its residential units. This aimed to 'de-institutionalise' the care environment and improve the experience of looked after children through the design of the interior of children's homes. This post-occupancy research will investigate the nature of a range of design interventions from this innovative project and to identify the resulting benefits or disadvantages to children and staff. It will seek the participation of both looked after children and staff and will measure the impact of design on their behaviour and experience.