“Designing Dormitories for Mental Well-being: Insights for International Students”

This thesis investigates how minimal, context-sensitive design interventions can significantly enhance the quality of life in student residences, focusing on the Foresteria Lingotto dormitory in Turin, Italy. The research addresses the discrepancy between the building’s historic structure and the evolving needs of its current long-term student occupants. The study combines qualitative and quantitative methods, including a structured questionnaire distributed among residents, field observations, spatial analysis, on-site observations, and the author's own lived experiences as a resident. The collected data revealed recurring issues: insufficient privacy in shared rooms, high levels of acoustic disturbance, a lack of natural elements in common spaces, and a shortage of essential service areas such as kitchens and laundry facilities. These findings directly shaped the design proposal. The design interventions follow a “minimal modification, maximum impact” approach. Privacy is improved through refined spatial zoning and the addition of non-solid, multifunctional partitions. Acoustic comfort is addressed via thin, high-performance membranes and lightweight panels, minimizing noise transfer without altering the structure. Common areas are enhanced with biophilic elements—wood finishes, indoor greenery, and warmer color palettes—to soften the dormitory’s sterile character and support mental well-being. Finally, underused technical service spaces are reallocated to create additional kitchens and laundry rooms, aligning with Italian guidelines for space allocation per resident. The outcome demonstrates that even within the constraints of a protected building, thoughtful, small-scale interventions can significantly improve liveability, comfort, and social dynamics. This thesis contributes actionable, adaptable strategies for upgrading existing student housing facilities while preserving their architectural heritage, offering a model for future renovations in similar contexts.