In line with Singapore’s agenda for a more nuanced approach to youth mental health challenges, ‘grovve’, a new initiative by the National Council of Social Service, rethinks youth access to mental health and wellness. This project, led by FARM, utilises design thinking to consider how a resonant, sensitive and non-stigmatising mental wellness centre can be created, and how different mental health service providers can come together to offer more integrated, sympathetic care.
The design thinking phase brought together a consortium of consultants, including FARM, Studio Dojo, Affinity Group, The Dao of Thriving, The Ubuntu Space and GUILD, to work with a steering committee of various government agencies, stakeholders and care providers. Alongside targeted research synthesis and in-depth
Interviews, a series of workshops were conducted with the youth and service providers across ideation and prototyping phases, giving contextualised insights into the current landscape and future aspirations for youth mental wellness. These findings culminated in an experience blueprint with synergised recommendations on
spatial provisions, brand identity and service flow. This blueprint served as the scaffold for the design-and-build phase, which WY-TO Singapore, with their expertise in Well-being and The Merry Men Works, with their build capabilities, bid for successfully as a team.
The ‘Well-being for All’ evaluation framework, developed by WY-TO Singapore, was used to refine the initial spatial design. Following this, biophilic-inspired design strategies were implemented to create more holistic and naturalistic solutions. This methodology empowers the new centre to provide systemic benefits for all.
A CIRCULATION SHAPED BY BIOPHILA
The previous layout was adjusted to prioritise free movement and the integration of natural tropical light indoors. In line with biophilic principles, the new winding circulation enhances spatial flexibility. Curved forms carve out distinct pockets of space in varying sizes, catering to diverse needs. To encourage interpersonal connections, the new layout eliminates doors in communal areas, fostering a sense of openness. Additional benefits of this fluid circulation include increased daylight penetration and intuitive wayfinding throughout ‘grovve.’ More importantly, the revised design ensures workspaces maintain a continuous visual connection to the outdoors,
minimising disruptions to the natural circadian rhythm of office workers.
ACCESSIBLE DYNAMIC SPACES FOR PROGRAMMING DIVERSITY
Aligned with the same “no doors in sight” philosophy, dynamic shared spaces for youth and the public remain adaptable. The flexible space adjacent to the co-located café is designed with operable walls and a retractable privacy screen, allowing it to transform into a quiet zone when needed. Tiered seating islands, strategically positioned in the event plaza and key gathering areas, further enable
flexible breakout spaces. Designed to spark spontaneous conversations, these islands follow the same organic curve language, inviting people to settle in comfortably. Thoughtfully curated and modular, the multi-purpose furniture allows for endless configurations within these vibrant spaces. Varying in height and texture, they offer users a range of options to personalise their comfort. Material choices align with either biophilic and circularity principles or reflect the innovative, dynamic spirit of youth. When combined, these spatial strategies cultivate intentional placemaking, welcoming a broader and more diverse community.
AN INCLUSIVE SENSE OF COMFORT THROUGH AND THROUGH
To encourage community support and inclusivity, the counselling spaces are surrounded by semi-private areas, providing a sense of security. Entry to these private rooms remains discreet, thanks to the winding circulation. Inside, the curved forms continue, gently enveloping and embracing vulnerable individuals. While room sizes vary, the furniture selection and lighting design follow a cohesive palette of reassurance and reliability. Complementing this, warm tones, natural textiles, and soothing textures are integrated as tangible design elements, helping individuals feel safe and at ease.
As Singapore’s first-of-its-kind Third Place dedicated to youth mental wellness, ‘grovve’ represents a bold step toward destigmatising help-seeking. Empathy is embedded through human-centric design, while the activation of shared spaces through diverse programs fosters positive community support. By providing a space where young people can find stability and nurture their sense of belonging, ‘grovve’ champions our vision of Third Places that prioritise Well-being for All.