Client + Brief

  Dr. Delfino Neelam

Delfino Neelam was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on March 23, 1948. He completed his Bachelors with a triple major in psychology, sociology, and anthropology from Brooklyn College in 1969, where he graduated with highest honors. He completed his Masters and PhD in psychology from Harvard University. He joined the faculty at Stanford University in 1971 where he assisted Dr. Philip Zimbardo in the famous Stanford Prison Study. He has taught at Yale, New York University and Columbia University. 

He currently assists the Department of Justice in analyzing severe cases of psychological criminal activity. Delfino also helps in the reform of prisoners and guards from a new private practice he is establishing from his newly commissioned residence.

Dr. Neelam is married with two daughters. His wife runs a personal relations firm and his children are high achievers in high school. There is a strong sense family and affection in the household; however parents work late and on some weekends. This has resulted in Delfino’s children becoming very independent. Delfino has a strong passion for music and reading, resulting in a large library and Steinway BabyGrand Piano.

Brief:

• Family:

Residence, providing basic ablutions and three separate bedrooms, along with room to house literary collections and piano. A family dining room must sit central to the overall form, forcing an interaction of residents as they move between units. A mirror or mirrors must also be used to bring together family members

• Work:

Building needs a distinct physical separation from family residence. Must contain separate units for reflection, and a movement towards a unified open space which allows for open interaction between patients. Structure must emulate a tower layout which focuses on re-form and a metaphorical and physical shift from dark to light.