Faced with the growing needs of an aging society, the design of a day care home by Aleksandra Wisniewska - a student at the Eugeniusz Geppert Academy of Fine Arts in Wroclaw - is part of the discussion on senior care architecture. The thesis, prepared under the direction of Dr. Aleksandra Przybyla, not only shows sensitivity to the needs of the elderly, but also introduces modern concepts of sustainability and neuroarchitecture.
axonometry
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
location and historical context
The designed day care home is located on plot No. 11 on Osiniecka Street in Wroclaw's Żerniki district. The plot covers an area of 5,594 m² and is surrounded by rich greenery, including parks and ponds. Thanks to its proximity to new housing estates and good transportation infrastructure, the location is well connected, while at the same time providing peace and contact with nature, which is crucial for the comfort of seniors and senior citizens.
axonometry
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
The plot on Osiniecka Street has significant historical roots. It was part of a former farmstead, and after World War II was given to the family of the project's author as part of resettlement. The choice of this location has a personal dimension, related to the memory of family roots and the desire to create a space that combines history with modernity.
design assumptions
The increase in the number of elderly people requires modern and functional care solutions. Day care homes should not only meet basic care needs, but also promote social integration, physical and mental activity. The key challenge is to create a space that is both functional, aesthetically pleasing and tailored to the specific needs of seniors.
terrace
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
Aleksandra Wisniewska focused on creating the day care home as a modern, functional single-story building. The building is divided into two interpenetrating blocks, which allows for effective space management and natural integration of the building into the surroundings. The design was inspired by Scandinavian architecture and the work of Alvar Aalto, known for his approach to integrating natural materials, such as wood, and the use of natural light.
main hall with reception area
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
The design incorporates sustainable principles, including energy-efficient technologies and green building materials. The building is to be passive, which means it will use local energy sources and minimize the negative impact on the environment. A green roof and the use of natural materials are intended to create a harmonious space that promotes the health and well-being of residents and occupants.
lobby
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
neuroarchitecture
Neuroarchitecture studies the impact of space on people's mental and physical health. A well-designed environment can significantly improve the well-being and quality of life of male and female users. Wisniewska's project applies the principles of neuroarchitecture to create spaces that promote relaxation, concentration and social integration. They are designed for maximum access to natural light, color harmony and a comfortable distribution of functions.
patio
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
Choosing the location of a day care home is a conscious decision to maximize the health and mental benefits for the elderly. Such a location is conducive to creating a harmonious, healthy and friendly environment that supports their well-being on many levels. To maintain physical fitness and improve patients' coordination in winter, group activities, rehabilitation and indoor therapies are provided. The day care home is a single-story building to minimize obstacles for people with disabilities.
lobby
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
zones
The entrance area of the building includes a reception desk with facilities, a lobby with access to toilets and seating for patients and their families, as well as space for wheelchairs and walkers. The reception area divides the building into two parts with corridors suitable for collision-free movement of pedestrians and wheelchair users. The narrowest points of the corridor are two meters wide, and the handrails and seats used facilitate movement and rest.
left corridor
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
In the central space of the building, a patio was designed with two passages connecting opposite corridors. From the passage closer to the main hall, an entrance to the employees' locker room was separated, with access to a social room with a toilet and exit to the patio. These spaces were separated by a partition at a 45-degree angle, providing privacy and intimacy. In addition, a double skin facade was used to limit sunlight and create shade without the use of air conditioning.
general room
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
Theleft wing of the building is dedicated to therapy and rehabilitation. The psychologist's and physiotherapist's offices are separated by a partition, and the physiotherapist's office connects to the gym, where seniors and senior citizens can use a variety of sports equipment. The gym is divided into activity zones and includes equipment tailored for seniors. A fitness room equipped with mirrors, gymnastic ladders and fitness equipment offers a variety of group activities. The patio provides easy access to a general locker room with showers.
physiotherapist's office - office and view of the gym
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
Theright wing begins with the doctor's office and nurses' station, which constitute the medical area of the building. There is also an office area with a reception desk, office and archives, as well as a utility room with housekeeping equipment. The art zone includes an art room and a music room, separated by locker rooms for patients. The kitchen area with storage and an additional entrance for staff facilitates logistics, and the general room is a place for relaxation, dining, integration and conversation, with direct access to the terrace and garden.
music room
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
art room
© Aleksandra Wisniewska
Aleksandra Wisniewska's concept combines a modern approach to architecture with concern for the comfort and well-being of seniors and senior citizens, providing a model for future initiatives in this area. Indeed, a broader application of the idea of neuroarchitecture in new projects can help improve the quality of life of users and users.
