Reactive Sober Walls address the pressing issue of drug addiction within communities like Delray Beach by proposing innovative architectural solutions integrated within Sober Homes. These homes, while intended to provide a drug-free environment, often lack regulation, leading to exploitation and tragic consequences, as evidenced by the case of Alison’s death in 2016.
The project aims to leverage architectural design to mitigate such risks and foster a supportive environment for recovery. It introduces two reactive wall systems:
Overdose Reactive Walls: Equipped with bio-sensors under the mattress, these walls detect abnormal activities indicative of an overdose. Upon detection, the bed moves to the exterior, partitions enclose the space, and Narcan is sprayed to alleviate the overdose while notifying emergency services.
Emotion Reactive Walls: Embedded within interior walls, these walls monitor patients’ emotional and physical states. When negative emotions or relapse indicators are detected, the walls reconfigure to facilitate peer support and communication, with responsive panels, foldable benches and calming blue lighting.
By seamlessly integrating these systems into existing infrastructure, the project seeks to maintain the comforting atmosphere of Sober Homes while proactively addressing the challenges of relapses and overdoses. Ultimately, Reactive Sober Walls aim to transform these spaces into healing environments that promote recovery and community connection.