Reaching Rural

Agriculture is one of New Zealand’s largest industries, yet little is being done about the diminishing mental wellbeing of the countries rural communities. Farming is a time consuming, strenuous occupation that is predominantly influenced by factors farmers can’t control. With new research and technology findings, changes in regulations, market influences and the trading market is further exhausting New Zealand’s farming population.

Reaching Rural explores how the discipline of Interior Architecture can positively promote the wellbeing of Farmers in rural New Zealand, using Sensory Design as a method to enhance moments of experience. This research identifies applications of Wellbeing Architecture and Sensory Design, which are then applied to a demographic that works off the land and is constantly exposed to a variety of unique sensorial qualities.

Understanding the issue of isolation within rural communities lead to the solution of designing ‘The Shed’.

The Shed aims to facilitate community engagement, acting as a venue to host a variety of different events, with the ambition to bring farmers together, aspiring to promote wellbeing. The Shed is a pop-up style venue that will be placed on host farms targeting different rural communities, ensuring isolated farmers are reached.

By bridging the gap between the built environment and wellbeing in the farming community, Reaching Rural brings awareness to the impact Interior Architecture can have on our mental wellbeing.