Facilities
In practical terms the actual design of the
Birth Pod contains the following:
• A covered walkway wraps around the
building to provide a space for the mother
to move and circle, freeing up her body
to facilitate the birthing process. There are
trees and plants arranged fractally around
this space which serves as a sensory
reminder of the overall supporting matrix.
• A visual wall presentation that has round
stone cladding rising up to lime or clay
based render, complete with timeless
spirallic motifs of birth from every culture.
The wooden windows and doors are ovoid,
resonating with the geometry of
the womb.
• A subtle natural interior finish which is
grounding and very feminine.
• A central well shaped birthing pool,
(geo thermally heated) with clear access
and movement space on all sides, with
steps and handrails for ease of movement
in and out.
• A contained toilet, wash hand basin and
shower space.
• A contained sleeping space for the mother
or support folk.
• A contained lounge area for the midwife
or other support person.
• A grounding pod with earthen floor, and
options of towels and wall bars to provide
support and hanging postures for the
mother as she explores ways to ease any
pain and release stress.
• A birth space, which is warm, safe, secure,
small and dark.
• Some storage and basic preparation space
for towels, water, tea, food and emergency
equipment.
• Feature alcoves that provide opportunities
for placement of candles, crystals or other
objects of intent and energy.
• The possibility for and provision of music,
aromas, flowing water and other sensory
support elements.
• An overall geometric form which resonates
with the symmetry of the womb and is
visually appealing and restful.
• A space that has very good air quality,
good levels or relative humidity and ample
negative ions.
• A playful yet resonant warm stone tile
pattern underfoot.
• A roof finish externally that could be
earth and planting, timber shingles, straw
or slate (depending on locally available
material and traditions)
• Five vertical wooden roof support poles
which can be lovingly carved with the
names or symbols of each previous birth,
building up a memory wave which in
turn supports the intention of the
space.