This body of work investigated the implications and feasibility of building multi-storey mental health facilities for New Zealand. It looked at both acute and forensic mental health services.

​

Exemplar projects have been analysed to establish design benchmarks and key performance indicators for multi-storey mental health facilities. This has contributed to evidence-based reference material prepared to inform the briefing for projects of this type.

The following key issues were identified and discussed:

1. Universal and inclusive design

2. Provision of natural light

3. Access to landscaped spaces

4. Connection to the land

5. Vertical transfer

6. Plan typologies suitable for multistorey solutions

7. Meaningful development of design guidelines