Should Prisons be Pretty? Influence of Prison Layout and other Architectural Characteristics on Life in Prisons

Paraušić Marinković, Ana (2025) Should Prisons be Pretty? Influence of Prison Layout and other Architectural Characteristics on Life in Prisons. In: Prison Life Organization and Security: Criminological, Penological, Sociological, Psychological, Legal, and Security Aspects. Institute of Criminological and Sociological Research, Belgrade, pp. 187-205. ISBN 978-86-80756-77-6

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Abstract

Architecture and spatial design of any building is proved to have a major impact on human behaviour and experience. So is the case with prison design, which can affect different aspects of prison life, such as prisoners` wellbeing, prisoners and staff relations, prison social climate, prisoners` adjustment etc. The goal of the paper is to outline the prevailing theoretical thoughts and empirical findings regarding the impact prison architecture and design choices have on persons residing in correctional facilities, prisoners and staff alike. First, the historical development of different prison layouts and its impact on life in prisons is presented. Following is the identification and description of various interior and exterior factors that play a role in living and working conditions in prisons. The position of the architect and other relevant actors in planning and developing prison design is discussed in the conclusion. Keywords: Architecture, Prison design, Prison layout, Life in prison

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