Tiaho Mai embodies a new direction in mental health design, and prioritises wellness, whānau and community as part of the recovery journey. Designed with the qualities of a home in mind, rooms are filled with light and fresh air. The architect’s skilful use of domestic materials offers a human scale and familiarity, and is a departure from the usual clinical palettes. The spatial planning is key, and moves away from the hub and spoke formula to a heart-based spatial concept. An open-plan core provides a space for people to come together and connect with nature through courtyards, planters and garden outlooks. The result is a design that nurtures and uplifts patients, whānau and staff.