Thanks to the development of medicine and other aspects of life that ensure mental and physical comfort for individuals, we can observe a steady increase in people's life expectancy, and consequently, an increase in the proportion of the elderly population. According to UN forecasts, by the year 2050, 1 in 6 people worldwide will be aged 65 or above. This means that the need for quality housing, providing a dignified, comfortable, and interesting life for elderly people, will growing every year.
In modern construction for the elderly, there is a clear desire to create joyful and cozy spaces that are pleasant to visit and live in.
The design of the internal and external space of the building is thought out based on the needs of patients, the entire environment contributes to the maintenance and improvement of mental and physical health and is gentle for patients.
Spatial structures of complexes for the elderly are being reconsidered and optimized to align with internal processes. The search for new spatial constructions is underway.
These trends are vividly reflected, for example, in the John Morden Center, designed by Mæ. The center, awarded the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2013, is an excellent example of a modern and diverse environment for the elderly.
The center serves as a daycare facility for the residents of Morden College, a retirement community situated in Blackheath.
The center is located on the grounds of a 17th-century college with its architectural heritage. The center harmoniously integrates into the surroundings, consisting of a series of brick pavilions with chimney stacks. The pavilions are connected by a central wooden covered walkway known as a "cloister."
The Center includes a theater, an art studio, a manicure salon, and a hairdressing salon.
The design is meticulously thought out to ensure everyone's comfort. Special features include leveled thresholds, special wooden handrails, and seating areas along pathways. This allows for breaks along the way and active engagement in the social life of the center. High-contrast patterns at the edges of the floor facilitate wayfinding, making it safe for individuals with dementia.
It's also worth noting that the center is built with respect for the existing landscape and the surrounding environment, utilizing low-carbon and energy-efficient construction methods.
The architects have successfully integrated medical and social spaces in a way that creates an environment that brings joy to life.
In future posts we will share other inspiring examples of a comfortable environment for older people. We invite you to enjoy these examples with us
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