WELCOMING SPACES: THE IMPACT OF ARCHITECTURE ON THE EXPERIENCE OF ATYPICAL MOTHERS IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT CLINICS

Abstract

Atypical motherhood is marked by emotional, physical, and social overload, intensified by the lack of support networks and the invisibility of these women in the therapeutic process. In this context, this article aimed to understand how architecture can impact the experience of atypical mothers in child development clinics, proposing design strategies that promote their well-being, social integration, and mental health. Methodologically, this is an exploratory study with a qualitative approach, based on a comprehensive literature review on atypical motherhood, support networks, and environmental psychology. The analysis revealed that the built environment plays a decisive role in the perception and mental health of users, fostering bonds of trust, reducing stress, and strengthening the formal support network. Priority demands identified included the creation of decompression spaces, areas for remote work, common rooms, and environments dedicated to the therapeutic support of mothers. It is concluded that architecture based on sensitive listening and humanization transcends the technical function and assumes a social role, transforming clinics into territories of comprehensive care, capable of promoting dignity, inclusion and mental health for atypical mothers.