Omar Harb

advisor

USEK - Holy spirit University of Kaslik

Lebanon

As an architect and founder of Omar Harb Architects & Associates, my work centers on creating… more

The project presents a thoughtful and socially responsive architectural approach centered on improving the quality of life for individuals living with epilepsy. The concept successfully moves beyond conventional residential design by addressing neurological wellbeing through spatial sensitivity, material selection, lighting control, and emotional comfort. The emphasis on calmness, safety, and independence establishes a strong humanitarian and user-oriented design narrative.

One of the project’s strongest qualities is its clear understanding of environmental triggers and how architecture can actively reduce stress and sensory overload. The use of soft neutral tones, natural materials, indirect lighting, and organic geometries contributes to a serene atmosphere that supports mental and physical wellbeing. The integration of large openings for daylight and ventilation is handled carefully to enhance comfort while avoiding harsh visual exposure, demonstrating an awareness of sensory balance rather than purely aesthetic transparency.

The spatial organization appears fluid and accessible, with open circulation and uncluttered movement paths reinforcing safety and ease of navigation. The inclusion of a lift reflects inclusive design thinking and expands accessibility across different age groups and physical conditions. The project also succeeds in creating spaces that feel emotionally warm and domestic rather than clinical, which is particularly important in healthcare-oriented residential architecture.

Materiality is another successful aspect of the proposal. The combination of wood textures, soft finishes, and non-slip surfaces enhances both tactile comfort and physical safety. The project demonstrates a commendable balance between technical practicality and architectural expression, avoiding excessive technological dependence while maintaining a calm and contemporary visual identity.

Further development could strengthen the project by providing deeper technical exploration regarding epilepsy-specific environmental controls. For example, additional information about artificial lighting frequencies, acoustic treatment, smart monitoring systems, emergency response integration, or adaptable sensory-control mechanisms would reinforce the medical and research-based credibility of the proposal. The project could also benefit from clearer explanation of how outdoor spaces and landscape design contribute therapeutically to the overall user experience.

Overall, the proposal is a sensitive and intelligent interpretation of therapeutic residential architecture. It demonstrates how architecture can become an active participant in healthcare and emotional wellbeing while maintaining aesthetic clarity and contemporary spatial quality. The project successfully combines empathy, safety, and architectural coherence into a meaningful living environment.

1. Introduce adaptive smart lighting systems with adjustable brightness and flicker-free technology to further minimize seizure-trigger risks.
2. Integrate acoustic insulation and sound-absorbing materials to reduce sudden noise stimulation and create a calmer sensory environment.
3. Develop therapeutic outdoor spaces such as sensory gardens, shaded courtyards, or reflective water features to enhance relaxation and emotional wellbeing.
4. Add concealed safety elements such as rounded furniture edges, cushioned wall panels in sensitive zones, and strategically positioned handrails.
5. Incorporate smart monitoring and emergency response systems connected to caregivers or medical services for additional user security.
6. Enhance biophilic design strategies by increasing indoor greenery, natural textures, and visual connections to nature.
7. Consider circadian rhythm lighting strategies that simulate natural daylight cycles to support healthier sleep and neurological balance.
8. Strengthen the project’s sustainability approach through solar shading devices, passive cooling systems, and energy-efficient glazing.
9. Introduce flexible multifunctional rooms that can adapt to resting, therapy, meditation, or family interaction.
10. Improve spatial zoning by separating quiet restorative areas from active social spaces to reduce overstimulation.
11. Include sensory transition zones between indoor and outdoor environments to create smoother psychological adaptation between spaces.
12. Explore anti-reflective finishes on flooring and walls to avoid excessive glare and visual discomfort.
13. Integrate universal design principles more extensively to accommodate broader accessibility needs beyond epilepsy care.
14. Add natural scent strategies through landscaping or material selection to reinforce calmness and therapeutic ambiance.
15. Provide clearer technical documentation regarding lighting specifications, material performance, and safety standards related to epilepsy-sensitive environments.
16. Strengthen the architectural identity of the project by developing a more distinctive façade language connected to the therapeutic concept.
17. Consider modular furniture arrangements that allow residents to personalize and control their environment comfortably.
18. Introduce passive environmental control systems such as cross ventilation and thermal buffering to improve indoor comfort naturally.
19. Enhance privacy gradients within the house to create emotionally secure retreat spaces for residents during stressful moments.
20. Further develop the emotional narrative of the project by explaining how each architectural element directly contributes to neurological wellbeing and quality of life.
14.05.2026