Synergistic incorporation of the features of psychological support architecture into emergency architecture as an effective response to living condition emergencies

Abstract The research problem addressed is the desired synergy of emergency architecture and features of psychological support buildings. The aim is to develop a functional model of a facility that would combine the features of both concepts for a fuller response to the temporary needs of victims, especially children, taking into account their psychological needs. It was hypothesised that the inclusion of psychological aspects in the emergency architecture can significantly improve the quality of protection for people in an emergency such as war or natural disasters and contribute to a significant reduction in stress and trauma. The multiple case study method and the research by design method were used. Emergency architecture is poorly recognised in the literature. Psychological support facilities, although more widely studied, have not been sufficiently analysed in terms of mobility and temporariness. The conducted comparison between emergency relief centres and healthcare facilities revealed significant functional similarities, such as providing shelter, a sense of safety, and opportunities for social interaction. Research findings point to the need for flexible design that combines material and psychosocial support, which will enable a more effective response to emergencies. In response to the identified research gap, a model Emergency Assistance Centre for the Youngest Victims of War was developed. The results of the research constitute design guidelines for appropriate infrastructure, that can be used in extreme conditions. The developed solutions confirm the possibility of including the features of psychological support buildings into the concept of an emergency relief centre. Of particular importance are ensuring the privacy of users, creating spaces conducive to contacts and integration, ensuring the possibility to experience suffering, providing support, and carrying out elements of therapy in a form and conditions adapted to the current mental and physical condition. It is also important to ensure the privacy of users and the possibility of choosing the form of stay depending on the current mental and physical condition. The integration of emergency architecture with the functions of psychological support buildings not only provides shelter but also supports the adaptation and therapeutic processes of the affected children. This is particularly important in the long term, where the effects of emergency situations can impinge on the entire future lives of the victims, especially children.