Prison Spaces and Rehabilitation: A Multi-Perspective Qualitative Analysis of the Built Environment in Austrian Prisons

Abstract

Over time, the built environment of prisons has shifted from a primary focus on security and control toward recognition of its impact on incarcerated individuals’ well-being, rehabilitation, and personal agency. Based on qualitative research in nine Austrian prisons, this article examines how the organization, accessibility, and usability of prison spaces shape experiences of imprisonment, institutional security, and rehabilitation conditions. The article draws on interviews with incarcerated individuals and staff, staff-only focus groups, and structured on-site visits. The findings illustrate how access, location, equipment, atmosphere, and everyday usability may shape perceptions of dignity, privacy, autonomy, and normality, and relate to the rehabilitative potential of prison spaces. The analysis further points to discrepancies between intended spatial functions and actual use, along with tensions between security requirements and rehabilitative goals. It concludes that the built environment must be considered together with organizational and social factors to support rehabilitation rather than reinforce existing disadvantages.