Files
Date of Award
5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Architecture
College
Arts and Sciences
Department
Architecture
Faculty Advisor
Regin Schwaen
Studio Coordinator
Stephen Wischer
Faculty Chair
Susan Kliman
Publisher
North Dakota State University
Rights
NDSU policy 190.6.2
URI
https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf
Abstract
This thesis project is a combination of five areas of research to create a design that is comforting for families in a time of distress. It investigates the effects that color, materials, lighting, vegetation, and dogs have on people to create a comforting environment. The typology is like a hotel or multi-family housing works with the nearby children's hospital due to being owned by the hospital and its proximity to it. The five areas of focus work in tandem with each other to create an enjoyable and comfortable experience for the occupants. Using pastel colors to create an inviting, fun, yet comforting interior. Like color usage, natural materials like wood, concrete, and stone are used throughout the interior to create a soft, grounded, and natural feeling. Along with that, there is an ample amount of natural light in all shared and private spaces. But when natural lighting isn't available, comfortable, diffused lighting can be found throughout, in the form of coffer lights and scones. Vegetation can also be found throughout the interior and surrounding the site, creating a connection to nature. Finally, an on-site dog shelter provides opportunities for occupants and local residents to interact with and adopt dogs, benefiting both humans and animals. Together, these five areas create a cohesive, comforting environment that supports the well-being of families and animals alike.
Recommended Citation
Gregoire, Brady, "Creating Comfort Through Design" (2025). Architecture Theses. 32.
https://digitalcommons.ndsu.edu/architecture-theses/32