Design against crime

Use of everyday objects in  a detention centre- a visual guide.

The project took place in a Youth detention centre in Greece. When I first visited the centre, I was surprised that I saw no furniture or other equipment lying around in the communal areas. There was only the bare minumum eg. one chair – even pens or pencils were carefully hidden.

Soon I figured out that there was a valid reason behind this: Severe fights were often witnessed among the ‘inmates’. Many of these fights would end up in ER with someone being hurt or wounded. Even a pen or a chair could turn into a ‘weapon’ when somenone wanted to pick up a fight.

Is a chair as innocent as we think?

This research explores the transformation of everyday objects into weapons within prison environments. The analysis focuses on the ingenuity of inmates in adapting common items for violent purposes, the factors contributing to this phenomenon, and the implications for prison safety and security. By examining case studies and incident reports the paper aims to provide a detailed understanding of the issue and propose measures for designers to mitigate the risks associated with improvised weapons.

The research uses a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative analysis of incident reports and interviews with correctional officers, with quantitative data on weapon-related incidents in various correctional facilities. The study also reviews existing literature on prison security measures.

Common objects and their transformations: Items such as toothbrushes, razors, pens, and metal cans are frequently converted into stabbing or slashing weapons. These modifications often involve simple but effective alterations, such as sharpening or binding objects together.

Factors influencing weapon creation: The motivation to create weapons stems from the need for self-defense, gang activities, and personal vendettas. Overcrowding, understaffing, and inadeouate surveillance exacerbate the prevalence of improvised weapons.

When I started this project I had ethical concerns about suggesting any design improvements in a prison environment: I did not want to contribute to a system that I personally saw as fundamentally flawed and inhumane. I am sure that this is the reason why most architects out there refuse to participate in the creation of detention facilities.

However, my thoughts and feelings changed when I started my site visits and interviews with the inmates and staff. I felt that as an architect there was a lot for me to do to help with improving the environment the inmates lived in. It was not about the furniture or the decoration or adding luxury elements in the design but more about suggesting rehabilitative and restoring approaches rather than punitive ones.

When I started this project I had ethical concerns about suggesting any design improvements in a prison environment: I did not want to contribute to a system that I personally saw as fundamentally flawed and inhumane. I am sure that this is the reason why most architects out there refuse to participate in the creation of detention facilities.

However, my thoughts and feelings changed when I started my site visits and interviews with the inmates and staff. I felt that as an architect there was a lot for me to do to help with improving the environment the inmates lived in. It was not about the furniture or the decoration or adding luxury elements in the design but more about suggesting rehabilitative and restoring approaches rather than punitive ones.

Suggestion to create distinct zones for different activities eg. education, recreation, sleeping to help manage behaviour and reduce conflicts. Natural light to increase to create a more positive environment. Improvement of ventilation and air quality which have been an issue. Design for good acoustics (eg.sound-absorbing materials) to reduce noise levels which have been a stress factor. Creation of versatile spaces that can be used for various therapeutic activities such as art therapy, gardening, group therapy, and meditation. Importance to be given to the outdoor space with the incorporation of gardens and allotments to provide a therapeutic and educational environment.

Suggestion for durable and safe materials  for any outdoor equipment that need to be robust yet safe, reducing the risk of them being used as weapons or tools for self-harm. Design of bespoke furniture, age-appropriate to promote a homelike feel which is less institutional. Use of calming colours in the design pallette for both the  outdoor space and planting palletes.

Engaging with staff, inmates and other stakeholders during the design process to understand their needs, wishes and concerns. establishing mechanisms for ongoing feedback through verbal/written forms from participants.