Engaging US Adults with Serious Mental Illness in Participatory Design Research Exercises

Clubhouses are non-clinical, community-based centers for adult members with serious mental illness. The evidence-based model assists adults with identifying employment, housing, education, and social opportunities; wellness and health-promoting activities; reducing hospitalizations and criminal justice system involvement; and improving social relationships, satisfaction, and quality of life. The model enables member participation in all Clubhouse operations, yet offers little guidance concerning facility design and member engagement in the design process. This case study explored the use of participatory design research exercises to (1) document member needs, preferences, and priorities to inform the design of a new midwestern U.S. Clubhouse facility and (2) meaningfully engage members (n = 16) in the design process. Four participatory design research exercises were developed, administered, and analyzed. Results revealed aesthetics and ambience; safety and security; ease of use and maintenance; adaptability, flexibility, and accessibility; and transportation as future priorities. Space and furnishing needs and priorities were also identified. Informal observations and participant feedback suggested that the participatory exercises meaningfully engaged members in a manner aligned with Clubhouse Model principles by centering member dignity, strengths, and work-oriented expectations. Future directions for research on Clubhouse design and member engagement in the design process are also discussed.