Accesible for all: A Study of OsloMet’s physical spaces oriented towards the mental well­being of students

There is a significant number of students suffering from mental-health problems that go untreated in University environments. Research shows that 20 per cent of students develop a mental disorder in the first 12-months of college, this has an impact in the number of dropouts and the student’s productivity. The goal of this project is to create an inclusive and diverse city campus for OsloMet students. With this in mind, we set to create a safe space for young students struggling with mental health problems. In order to achieve this, the group recurred to literature research, interviews with informants and students, as well as brainstorming. All of this is focused on subjects regarding physical spaces and mental health. The results indicate that physical spaces have a significant impact on mental well-being and productivity. Regarding the campus, findings include high levels of distracting sounds in the common spaces of OsloMet, not enough outdoor spaces to relax and a lack of private places to relax or study without having to make a reservation. On this basis, the addition of diverse workspaces are suggested. Modern, modular workstations in order to reduce distractions and increased privacy are an example of this. Wooden materials and various colours, such as blue could be integrated. Further research in the subject can include the outdoor spaces of OsloMet, the disponibility of workrooms, adjusting the air quality and temperature and advantages of online education.Outgoin