Lauren Clare

‘You Should Panic’ is an experimental narrative that explores speculative futures through the lens of interior design.  Through this, I was able to explore the realm of Speculative Theories through the ‘possible’, creating a link between today’s world and the suggested one that I am proposing could happen.  Within this, it investigates alternative ways of living and thriving within a confined environment, envisioning humanity’s adaptation to a post-nuclear landscape, moving to underground living.  In this scenario, the catastrophic event is located within Folkestone.  It devastates the community, leaving most of the few remaining survivors disabled by the changed post-nuclear landscape.  With this catastrophic scenario in mind, I devised an underground Rehabilitation centre below the Grand Hotel at Folkestone, preparing for the ‘inevitable’. 

Within this design, I propose that there is an unrealistic expectation for civilians to stay inside after experiencing a nuclear blast, especially if their loved one or themselves had faced injuries from the initial blast.  To combat this fear, I propose a multidisciplinary medical rehabilitation centre that acts as an initial first aid response.  This can offer immediate medical help and support.  It can then also start the process of addressing the long-term challenges that confront negative disability stereotypes.  Multi-disciplinary teams set in these design mediums will ensure that I can promote dignity, humanity and resilience within my space.  I have designed the specialised space to actively encourage and promote the growth of the new society.  I specifically focused on a long-term cancer unit within the site, protecting and maintaining the importance of preserving the vital circadian rhythm whilst underground. 

This site offers more than just a medical facility.  It considers the integration of representing the interconnectedness and interdependence of a person’s mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing.  The site can offer family reunification as well as long-term multidisciplinary care, considering a post-nuclear landscape developed through past and present case studies.  I viewed accessibility as the catalyst for my design based on this horrific nuclear scenario and investigated the materiality of light, human connectivity, resilience and compassion. Within this project, I investigated through interior design the importance of looking into the future, reflecting on the past and acting within the now