Influence of Design Within Correctional Facilities

Correctional Facilities Management:

In his design analysis, famed American businessman Thomas J. Watson exclaimed, “Design must reflect the practical and aesthetic in business but above all…good design must primarily serve people.” This insight still holds true even in some of the more unconventional areas of design and architecture, such as the construction of correctional facilities. Many correctional facilities nationwide are being reconfigured or rebuilt as their current infrastructure needs maintenance. Due to this widespread infrastructure update, public and private institutions would be wise to follow this advice as they consider how to best utilize the space. By understanding and adhering to certain design principles, correctional facilities can employ the best use of space and introduce a new sense of ambiance that would reduce stress for incarcerated individuals and correctional officers.

The Implementation of Color and Light:

Correctional facilities, like other institutional spaces, were created to be purposefully boring to the human eye. The environment is meant to look monotonous with fluorescent lights, gray or white walls, and metal bars. However, this boring and monotonous environment can be more damaging than it seems on the surface. Numerous studies have shown that the introduction of color can be critical in changing the behaviors of individuals inside correctional facilities. The reaction to each color varies. Therefore, it is important to know and understand what each space will be used for and apply that knowledge to the color selection for a room. This can be accomplished by painting the walls or introducing colored furniture into the space. A similar result has also been achieved through the use of natural light. Being exposed to sunlight for several hours a day can increase one’s melatonin levels, making it easier to sleep. Therefore, designers should consider making the best use of the space to achieve maximum levels of natural light exposure.

Outdoor Reset Location:

An additional design idea that has been implemented in at least one corrections facility in Iowa created a designated outdoor space for corrections staff to gather during their breaks. The reasoning behind this space is quite brilliant. People often forget that corrections staff, much like incarcerated individuals, spend most of their shifts inside the prison system subjected to the same uninteresting features and dull colors. Therefore, it is not uncommon for corrections staff to start feeling trapped or claustrophobic in their job and space. To combat this tension, corrections staff should have a location they can visit on their breaks when they feel they need a respite. This space could be outdoors or have outdoor access and contain activities, furniture, and potentially even some plant life. Having an area like this is critical because it allows staff to get fresh air so they do not feel trapped in the facility. They should have some exposure to nature to help them ground themselves, and furniture should be available so they can rest. Activities should also be available so they can enjoy themselves and have fun with coworkers during their time off. Adding these features in a designated space should create a better, more comfortable environment for correctional staff where they can relax and relieve some of their tension, ultimately resulting in fewer complications both in and outside the facility.

In-patient Facilities:

Finally, suppose a correctional facility is considering adding an inpatient unit to their facility that will be staffed by corrections employees. It is imperative that management works with staff to determine the best path forward. Inpatient units housed within correctional facilities can be significantly concerning for correctional officers and staff as patients can often become belligerent. While the staff is trained to handle numerous situations, these individuals are typically mentally ill and are not receiving the proper care needed, resulting in them ending up in such facilities. Staff is traditionally not educated and equipped to handle violent, mentally ill patients. Although the staff recognizes the importance of these establishments, it is understandable that they may have concerns related to their health and safety. Ultimately, much of this should be resolved through detailed communication between management and staff on planning and design.

New or renovated facilities can be formed and adjusted to accommodate not only the needs of incarcerated individuals but also those of correctional officers. Correctional staff will spend much of their time in these facilities, and it is important to realize this and make them feel more comfortable in their work environment. With the addition of color and natural light to the facility's interior, both correctional officers and the population have access to some form of visual stimulation. This aspect of visual stimulation is imperative for human beings and can be supported by other efforts, such as designated outdoor spaces for staff. Introducing these concepts to facilities should allow correctional staff to relieve stress and tension in healthier ways both inside and outside of their job. Enabling staff to provide input into the physical design and planning of inpatient facilities provides employees with a sense of comfort and safety. Not only will they know the safety measures put into place, but they will be able to see them implemented as they transform from ideas into physical concepts and designs.