UNC Charlotte Space for Wellness

Located within the Cone Student Center, the Space for Wellness and Ritual Washing thoughtfully responds to a critical need expressed by the university’s diverse student body: a dedicated space for ritual washing.

Practiced across multiple faith traditions, ablution provides a moment of spiritual purification and reflection before prayer or meditation. Responding to the lack of suitable facilities on campus, the design team collaborated closely with students, faith practitioners, and the university’s accessibility director, conducting extensive research and iterative prototyping to ensure a respectful and inclusive space.

The station features a custom wash basin, thoughtfully designed to accommodate varied physical abilities, postures, and personal practices. Dual faucets, one positioned alongside an accessible teak bench with integrated towel hooks and shoe storage, and another configured specifically for wheelchair accessibility, ensure equitable use.

Rich colors, warm lighting, and carefully selected materials contribute to an atmosphere of tranquility and spiritual reflection. Modest in scale yet significant in impact, the station exemplifies UNC Charlotte’s commitment to celebrating diversity, equity, and community inclusivity through design.