Chapter 2: Design Foundations

2.1. Design Process

The design process is derived from the Jail Design Guide Third Edition of U.S. Department of Justice: National
Institute of Corrections. The steps mentioned used a systematic approach to addressing the step-by-step analysis in
an organized and intricate manner.

2.1.1 Introduction to the Design Process

Phase 1: Project Recognition

This phase involves looking into the current situation of the facilities related to the project and assessing the demand
for it.
■ Recognizing the problem. Is the demand for prison that big to address? Is the facility in need of expansion, repair,
or replacement?
■ Identifying resources. Where can data be found? Who can retrieve the needed data? What information technology
is available or needed?
■ Identifying the agency taking the lead. Which agency will be responsible and should be contacted when gathering
data
Phase 2: Needs Assessment
■ Reviewing applicable standards and legal requirements. Including related literature and case studies of existing
prisons.
■ Evaluating the current criminal justice system and policies.
■ Evaluating the existing facility for standards compliance.

❏ Evaluating the facility to determine whether renovation/expansion is needed.

Phase 3: Facility Program Development
The functional and space programs are brought together in Phase 3
■ Developing a functional program, which includes:

❏ Reviewing applicable national and international standards.

❏ Identifying square footage needs for the new facility.

❏ Looking for the site and developing criteria

❏Identifying the suitable site for the project.

Phase 4: Project Definition and Implementation Plan
In this phase, all of the information gathered and decisions made in the previous phases are further refined and
gelled into a conceptual design and the refinement of site requirements.
■ Evaluating facility options (new construction versus renovation/expansion).
■ Developing a conceptual design for the new facility.
■ Conducting user and owner reviews.
Major Building Considerations
Once the capacity is set, reasonable conclusions about the general magnitude and character of the building can be
reached by making basic decisions with respect to several major considerations. These allow preliminary calculations
of required building square footage and thus allow the development of feasible options and accurate cost estimates.
They also drive operational costs.
The following are the major considerations to address:
■ Confirming the inmate classification/ separation system established during capacity setting.
■ Determining the appropriate occupancy level for each classification of inmate (i.e., singleoccupancy cell, double-
occupancy cell, multiple-occupancy cell, dormitory).
■ Establishing the method(s) by which inmate surveillance/supervision will occur in housing areas.
■ Estimating staffing needs relative to different design and management concepts.
■ Estimating staffing needs relative to different design and management concepts.
■ Identifying the range of nonhousing functions in the jail that must be supported by space (e.g., booking, medical
services, programs, administration).
■ Ascertaining which services (e.g., food, laundry) can be obtained elsewhere or to what outside agencies the jail
might provide services through expanded facilities.
■ Deciding the degree of expansion to be accommodated.
2.2. Review of Related Literature
2.2.1. Overview of the Literature Review
Background and context
The following literature, articles, and case studies are utilized to gain a deeper understanding of the project's
historical context and significance. They serve as valuable references to reflect on past examples, enabling us to
identify and implement the necessary improvements for the project's success.
Problem statement and significance
Throughout history, the evolution and continuous improvement of prison facilities have raised fundamental questions
regarding their core purpose: punishment or rehabilitation. These questions underline the complex nature of prison
design, which has a profound impact on the lives of incarcerated individuals while also implicating human rights and
architectural standards. The studies referenced highlight the integral role of architecture in the incarceration process,
emphasizing that the design of a prison is far from a simple task. It requires a meticulous approach that considers the
humane treatment of inmates, respecting their rights, and adhering to established architectural norms. Thus, prison
design becomes a critical aspect of addressing the dual objectives of punishment and rehabilitation within the
criminal justice system.
Research objective
The central aim of these researches and case studies is to emphasize the vital importance of integrating architectural
interventions into the domain of prison design, especially in response to the demand for humane prison
environments. This information functions as a tool for grasping the authentic needs of individuals inhabiting these
institutions. Also, their goal is to bridge existing gaps and address operational issues associated with the running and
administration of prisons. In essence, these research efforts seek to highlight the significance of creating humane
and efficient prison environments that align with the requirements and rights of incarcerated individuals, all while
addressing practical challenges within the correctional system.
2.2.2. Literature Review

Demand Justification
CNN Philippines Staff (2023) DOJ stops entry of new inmates to Bilibid. Department of Justice.
http://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/7/28/DOJ-moratorium-new-inmates-Bilibid.html

The article discusses the Philippines' plan to close the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) by 2028, with Justice
Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announcing a moratorium on new prisoner admissions to NBP and the
intention to transfer them to other available jails to alleviate NBP's congestion. The Department of Justice
(DOJ) is collaborating with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, even though local jails are
already overcrowded. The closure is part of a strategy to decongest NBP, preparing for its planned
shutdown either in 2028 or by the end of the Marcos administration. The government envisions repurposing

the 357-hectare NBP property into a commercial hub.

B. Pulta (2023) BuCor announces P205-B multiyear plan to upgrade prisons. Bureau of Corrections.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1206049

In this article, BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. has outlined the comprehensive
development and modernization program scheduled to continue until 2028. This initiative encompasses the
refurbishment and construction of existing correctional facilities, as well as the creation of new amenities,
including housing for BuCor personnel and specialized facilities for female persons deprived of liberty
(PDLs). The overarching plan involves regionalization, with the establishment of 16 regional facilities - one
for male and one for female PDLs in each region. Additionally, facilities designed for heinous crime
offenders will be situated at strategic locations, such as Fort Magsaysay Military Reservation in Palayan City
for Luzon, Camp Macario B. Palta in Jamindan for Visayas, and Camp Kibaritan in Kalimantan for
Mindanao. The ultimate goal is to reconfigure these prisons to accommodate a maximum of 2,500 PDLs per
facility. A significant step has already been taken, with 500 PDLs relocated to Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm
in Puerto Princess, Palawan, and plans to transfer approximately 7,000 more in stages this year to Davao
Prison and Penal Farm in Panabo, Davao, and Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm in Occidental, Mindoro.

Key architectural theories and concepts

Engstrom, K.V., & van Ginneken, E.F. (2022). Ethical Prison Architecture: A Systematic Literature Review of Prison
Design Features Related to Wellbeing. Space and Culture, 25, 479 - 503.

This study proves that Prison Architecture matters and contributes to the overall well-being of the prisoners.
It thoroughly examines how seemingly minor factors such as lighting, fixtures, and ventilation have
substantial effects on both the physical and psychological aspects of incarcerated individuals. Additionally,
the study delves into the evolution of prison design, highlighting the progressive efforts made over the years
to enhance the living conditions and experiences of inmates.

G. Galford, Ph.D. (2021) Prison as Home: Characteristics of Control within General Prison and Solitary Confinement
Environments
 This qualitative study explored stakeholder perspectives on control in US correctional environments,
highlighting themes of trust, nature views, sound, time, and routine. The study found a disconnect between
rehabilitation and punitive goals, with correctional officers emphasizing fear and surveillance. Inmates
valued outdoor views and personal possessions for a more meaningful passage of time. Future prison
design should consider European rehabilitative strategies to address recidivism issues prevalent in the
American prison system.

Karthaus, R., Block, L., & Hu, A. (2019). Redesigning prison: the architecture and ethics of rehabilitation. The Journal
of Architecture, 24, 193 - 222.

In this study, the panopticon type of planning was passed through. This feeling of being constantly being
watched is achieved in the Panopticon through two interlinked elements. The first element is that the
inspector should be central; he or she should have a central position in the prison. The second element is
the idea of “seeing without being seen,” meaning that the inspector should be able to watch the inmates, but
not be seen by them. If the inmates would be able to see the inspector, then they would know when he or
she is watching them and when he or she is not watching them. But if the inmates can’t see the inspector,
they don’t know whether he’s not watching them. And, according to Bentham, that would lead the inmates to
believe that the inspector might be constantly watching them.

Hancock, P., & Jewkes, Y. (2011). Architectures of incarceration: The spatial pains of imprisonment. Punishment &
Society, 13, 611 - 629.

This study explores the relationship between the physical environment of prisons and the experiences of
inmates, drawing on concepts and theories from critical organization studies and criminology. It also tackles
how the architecture (the physical structures and layout) and aesthetics (the visual and sensory aspects) of
penal environments influence inmate experiences. This could encompass the design of cells, common
areas, and the overall atmosphere of the prison.13(5), 624

This study highlights the historical limits placed on the subjective growth of individuals in workspaces, often
characterized as "iron cages" or "psychic prisons," and applies this understanding to the physical and
psychological confinement experienced by those in custody. It challenges the assumption that "modern"
prison design equates to better outcomes and interrogates the value of initiatives that aim to create clean,
humane, and aesthetically pleasing environments in prisons.
By critically examining the potential pitfalls and unintended consequences of modern prison architecture,
this study contributes to the broader discourse on the role of architecture in carceral spaces.

K. Ricci (2006). Jail Site Evaluation and Selection: The Cost of Overreacting to Public Concerns

The NIMBY (Not In My BackYard) phenomenon commonly occurs during jail site selection, whether for a
new location or an existing one. Officials may hastily opt for a remote, low-cost site due to concerns, but
cost analysis should be rigorous to avoid costly mistakes. For instance, a small New England state
mandated a new maximum-security facility on a remote mountain, resulting in a $3 million increase in
project cost. This included building a 2-mile road, extending a sewer line 3 miles to the nearest town,
upgrading the town's sewage treatment plant, and facing a 2-year delay due to an investigation by the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers into the impact on a rare toad habitat.

Functional Analysis

Bartels, L., & Gaffney, A. (2011). Good Practice in Women's Prisons: A Literature Review.
 “The purposes of incarceration not only include retribution, punishment, and incapacitation, but also
rehabilitation.”This study places a specific emphasis on the need to prioritize the rehabilitation and social
reintegration of women prisoners. It examines various women's facilities globally to illustrate how architectural
considerations play a crucial role in facilitating the restoration of incarcerated individuals. These insights can
be invaluable in the development of inclusive prison designs that cater to the needs of all genders.

Design and Conceptualization

Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (2022) Rights of PDLs under the law

PDLs have the right to be free from abuse and against deprivation of their basic needs. They have the right
against corporal punishment or the use of physical force and solitary confinement. Prisoners have the right
to exercise their religious beliefs and keep access to health services, rehabilitation programs, visitation and
mail services, free legal services and materials. They have the right to complain to the proper authorities.

PDLs also have a right to good conduct time allowance (GCTA) for good behavior. Women prisoners have a
right to be attended by women personnel, without prejudice to male doctors and other male personnel
carrying out their duties in the facilities. Foreign nationals detained in Philippine prisons have the right to
communicate with the diplomatic representatives of their respective countries of origin.

Soliman, R.E., El-Razaz, Z., & EL-Nasr, M.S. (2020). VISION OF THE IDEAL PRISON DESIGN ACCORDING TO
THE HUMAN RIGHTS CONSIDERATIONS. Engineering Research Journal.

This study explores various prison design models, highlighting the stark contrast between those rooted in
punitive ideologies devoid of humanitarian considerations and those aligned with international agreements
that prioritize humane treatment. The project's master planning demonstrates a commitment to preserving
cultural and environmental connections, minimizing tree removal, and preserving iconic bob trees.
Furthermore, it references the European Court of Human Rights' stance on sensory and social isolation as
inhumane treatment. Overall, the study emphasizes the crucial role of prison design in expressing the
philosophy of incarceration, advocating for rehabilitation, and emphasizing the psychological well-being of
prisoners to foster a positive and mentally stimulating environment.

Grönegräs, M. (2019). International Differences in Prison Architecture. MaRBLe.

This study compares the US prisons to German prisons. German prison design is employed to maximize the
privacy of the inmates as well as their freedom of movement. German approach towards incarceration as a
model that could potentially contribute to an improvement of the prison system in the US.

Kenis, P., Kruyen, P.M., Baaijens, J., & Barneveld, P.V. (2010). The Prison of the Future? An Evaluation of an
Innovative Prison Design in the Netherlands. The Prison Journal, 90, 313 - 330.

This study highlights groundbreaking innovations in prison architecture, presenting a facility

characterized by several pioneering features. Notably, inmates are housed in six-person cells, and
they wear electronic wristbands to facilitate movement tracking. Additionally, correctional officers
are equipped with handheld devices for real-time monitoring of potential issues. Public authorities
view this prison as a model for the future of correctional facilities, emphasizing its cost-
effectiveness and efficiency without compromising on strict discipline or infringing upon the
 fundamental rights of inmates. The focus of the current study is to assess employee effectiveness
and safety within this novel prison paradigm.

Case study

This section explores projects that can serve as valuable references for the proposed facility, with an emphasis on
evaluating them in accordance with established legal and architectural design standards. The objective is to draw
from these completed and operational projects to apply fundamental and proven principles while avoiding the errors
made in previous endeavors.

Both foreign and local references have been considered to gain insights into what constitutes a successful and
effective design, as well as to pinpoint areas needing improvement. Furthermore, this analysis aims to identify the
factors that have contributed to the ineffectiveness of certain buildings, thus providing a comprehensive framework
for the proposed facility's design considerations.

Case No. 1: Federal Correction Complex, Butner

Location: Dutchville Township, Granville County, North Carolina
Population: 5,000 (four facilities)
Security Class: Minimum, Low, Medium and administrative security (FMC Butner is a medical facility

Functional Analysis
The Federal Correction Complex in Butner, North Carolina, is a noteworthy correctional facility recognized for its
advanced medical facilities and rehabilitation programs. At the heart of its mission is the commitment to the well-
being and rehabilitation of its inmates. The complex includes a fully equipped medical center that provides
comprehensive healthcare services to inmates, focusing on both physical and mental health needs. Additionally, it
features cutting-edge rehabilitation processes aimed at helping individuals reintegrate into society successfully.

A significant component of the Butner Federal Correction Complex is its Medium II facility, which houses inmates of
varying security levels. This allows for the classification and housing of inmates according to their specific security
needs, enhancing safety and security within the facility.
One remarkable achievement of the Butner Complex is its recognition as the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design) certified prison. Led by Moseley Architects, This prestigious certification highlights the
facility's commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. By promoting sustainable practices and water
conservation within its operations, the Butner Complex sets a commendable example for environmentally responsible
correctional facilities.
One standout feature is the facility's cutting-edge laundry water recycling system, which is estimated to reduce
laundry water usage by a remarkable 50 percent. This groundbreaking system not only saves over two million gallons
of water annually but also significantly reduces the energy required to pre-heat laundry water.

In addition to the water-saving laundry system, the complex incorporates water-conservation measures throughout its
infrastructure. Low-flow lavatories, showers, and water closets are strategically installed, estimated to conserve an
additional 350,000 gallons of water each year. The commitment to energy efficiency is evident in the complex's
HVAC system, which features energy recovery technology. Upgrades in thermal performance for precast wall
systems and window glazing further contribute to energy conservation. Domestic hot water efficiency is improved,
and both interior and exterior lighting systems are designed for energy efficiency.
In a bid to support the local economy and reduce transportation-related environmental impacts, the project prioritized
regionally-manufactured building materials. Structural precast materials, for instance, were sourced from Tindall

Corporation in Petersburg, Virginia.

Furthermore, the facility maximizes natural daylight through thoughtful architectural design, including strategically
placed windows, clerestories, and tubular skylights. This not only enhances occupant comfort but also reduces the
reliance on electrical lighting, a factor that's thoughtfully balanced with security considerations.
The well-being of employees, visitors, and inmates is a top priority, with indoor air quality being meticulously
protected during construction and improved through a thorough building flush-out before occupancy. The selection of
adhesives, sealants, paint, carpet, and composite wood products with low chemical concentrations, particularly
volatile organic compounds and formaldehyde, further underscores the commitment to safeguarding health and
environmental quality within the complex.
Application:
The case of the Federal Correction Complex (FCC), particularly the FCI Medium II facility housing 1,470 inmates,
offers valuable insights and benefits that can be applied to the proposed project. By adopting the sustainable
approaches demonstrated at the FCC, the new project stands to achieve a significant impact on both the prison's
economic viability and its environmental footprint.
The sustainability measures implemented at the FCC, such as innovative water recycling systems, energy-efficient
HVAC systems, and the use of regionally manufactured building materials, showcase the potential for cost savings
and environmental stewardship. These practices can be adapted to the proposed project, leading to reduced
operational costs and a smaller ecological footprint.
The emphasis on water and energy conservation, as evidenced by the FCC's water-saving initiatives and energy-
efficient technologies, can serve as a blueprint for the proposed project. Implementing similar strategies can lead to
substantial long-term economic benefits and contribute to the facility's overall sustainability.
Case 2: Halden Prison Norway
Location: Halden, Norway
Population: 215 (2015)
Security Class: Maximum

Design and Conceptualization

Halden Prison, located in Norway, stands out as a remarkable example of a humane and rehabilitative approach to
incarceration. Designed with the intention of providing both inmates and staff with a friendly and non-authoritarian
experience, this prison is recognized as the most humane in the world. What sets Halden Prison apart is its emphasis
on community and interaction. Inmates are encouraged to engage in sports and various activities alongside unarmed
staff, fostering a sense of camaraderie and normalcy. The prison's design, conceived by Erik Møller Architects,
prioritizes natural light and ample access to glass windows that offer views of trees and greenery. This approach
aims to create an environment that is far from the traditional image of a prison, making inmates feel more like valued

individuals than mere criminals.

The facility offers a range of activities and educational programs designed to foster personal growth and skills
development among the incarcerated population. These activities include a woodworking shop, assembly workshop,
technical and industrial production programs, car care, building trades, graphic media workshops, visual arts and
crafts, a main kitchen, laundry services, a cleaning department, and even a shop for inmates. These opportunities not
only offer practical skills but also contribute to a sense of purpose and productivity.

Halden Prison's primary goal is effective rehabilitation and preparing inmates for successful reintegration into society
upon their release. This approach aligns with its underlying philosophy, which is summed up by the idea that allowing
even dangerous individuals to feel like humans leads to more civil behavior than treating them as forces of evil.
Common areas like prayer rooms and courts further reinforce the idea that this facility is geared towards
humanization and rehabilitation rather than strict punishment.

Application:
Halden Prison exemplifies an open-air architectural approach that seamlessly integrates its buildings with the
surrounding natural environment to support inmate rehabilitation. The facility also champions the "roads, not walls"
mantra, which emphasizes a transformative approach to incarceration. This unique architectural design and
philosophy can serve as a model for prioritizing spatial innovation that aligns with the goal of behavioral rehabilitation.
Case 3: Coyote Ridge Correction Center
Location: Connell, Washington
Capacity: 2,468
Security Class: Medium-Maximum

Functional Analysis
The Coyote Ridge Correction Center, located in Connell, Washington, is a medium-security prison with a maximum
capacity of 2,468 inmates. What sets it apart is its status as the greenest prison in the United States. This
environmentally conscious facility has implemented various sustainable practices to reduce its ecological footprint.
 One notable achievement is its significant reduction in water
consumption, saving a remarkable 5.5 million gallons of water annually. This effort alone contributes to substantial
savings of approximately $370,000 in energy costs each year. One of the most visible eco-friendly features of the
facility is its 71 kW building-integrated photovoltaic solar array, situated atop a warehouse covering 16,929 square
feet. This solar installation has been highly effective, generating 116.1 MWh of energy since its inception, supplying
approximately 13 percent of the prison's energy needs. This real-time energy production data is tracked and
displayed on a dashboard maintained by Solar Integrated Technologies.

The prison's commitment to sustainability also extends outdoors, with drought-resistant landscaping and measures
such as using gravel instead of grass to reduce water usage by 25 percent. Overall, during the fiscal year that ended
in June 2009, the prison successfully reduced its consumption of potable water by an impressive 20.4 percent, as
reported by the corrections department.
Design and Conceptualization
The Coyote Ridge Correction Center (CRCC) in Washington may appear intimidating and secure from the outside,
surrounded by tall fences topped with razor wire, but it boasts advanced security and resource-efficient designs that
make it a leader in the field of correctional units. The facility combines security with sustainability in innovative ways.
The prison features long, thin windows on its building envelopes, and relies heavily on natural light to illuminate
occupied spaces, demonstrating a balance between security and resource efficiency. Among its unique building
designs are the four "hybrid housing" units out of the eight twin pods. These units provide inmates with more freedom
of movement within the structure while maintaining security standards.
Beyond these visible elements, the prison also prioritizes indoor air quality by using building materials low in volatile
organic compounds, which contributes to a healthier environment for both inmates and staff.
The Coyote Ridge Correction Center (CRCC) in Washington showcases a unique blend of architectural styles,
merging modern and classic elements to create a distinctive prison design. The exterior of CRCC leans towards
simplicity and traditional aesthetics, giving it a more conventional appearance. However, it's inside the facility and in
the overall planning where the true innovation becomes apparent, embodying a modern and forward-thinking

approach.
One of the key design features that sets CRCC apart is the strategic placement of its housing units. Unlike many
prisons that have a more clustered layout, CRCC's housing units are arranged separately. This design choice
simplifies the classification of inmates, making it easier to manage and segregate different inmate populations based
on security levels or other criteria.
A particularly innovative aspect of CRCC's design is the use of "hybrid housing" units, which depart from the typical
concrete and steel construction seen in most prisons. Instead, CRCC employs metal studs and sheetrock, a
construction approach that not only saves a significant amount of money—approximately three million dollars—but
also results in housing units that require considerably less maintenance than their traditional counterparts.
Expanding on the use of metal studs and sheetrock, these materials offer several advantages. Metal studs are
lightweight, easy to work with, and more resistant to corrosion than traditional wooden studs. Sheetrock, a type of
drywall, provides durability, fire resistance, and a smooth, paintable surface. Together, these materials contribute to a
more cost-effective and maintenance-friendly prison infrastructure.
Application:
Case 4::Hunter Correctional Center
Location: Cessnock Australia
Capacity 400
Security: Maximum

Hunter Correctional Centre (HCC) is Australia's newest maximum security prison, located 150km north of Sydney. It
was constructed in just 12 months and opened on January 30th of the current year. Unlike traditional prisons, HCC
doesn't have individual cells; instead, it features dormitory-style accommodation with 25 inmates in each of its 16
'pods.' In these pods, inmates have certain privileges, such as making late-night telephone calls and watching their
own touch-screen televisions.

Design and Conceptualization

Despite the comfortable living conditions, HCC places inmates under extreme scrutiny and has a strong focus on
rehabilitation. All 400 male inmates are required to work for up to five hours a day and participate in education and
other programs to prepare them for life outside of prison. This approach is seen as a potential model for rehabilitating
serious offenders, including murderers, rapists, and career criminals.
The prison's design consists of four wings, each containing four dormitories or 'pods,' with 25 inmates in each
cubicle. Each cubicle is equipped with a desk, stool, mattress, and a 60cm interactive television, allowing inmates to
personalize their living spaces.
Notably, since its opening, HCC has achieved impressive results in terms of safety and security. There have been no
reported assaults on staff, no deaths, only one self-harm incident, and no escapes. This suggests that the unique
approach to inmate living conditions and rehabilitation at HCC is achieving its intended goals.
Application:
Having an open-plan prison like the Hunter Correctional Centre (HCC) does come with its inherent risks, especially
when housing maximum-security prisoners. These individuals often have a history of violent offenses and may pose
a significant danger to both staff and other inmates. However, the open-plan design of HCC reflects a shift in the
approach to incarceration and rehabilitation, emphasizing human rights and the reintegration of inmates into society.
By offering inmates opportunities for work, education, and personal development, HCC aims to equip them with the
skills and mindset necessary for successful reintegration into society upon release. This approach recognizes that
the ultimate goal of the criminal justice system should be not only punitive but also restorative, with an emphasis on
reducing recidivism.

DAvao Prison Penal Farm

NBP