Sakuragien—Aomori elderly home,
design: waiwai
Sakura Home, a project by waiwai, completed in collaboration with Naoyuki Shirakawa Atelier, is a modern nursing home in Mutsu, Aomori Prefecture, Japan that combines innovative technologies with traditional elements of Japanese architecture. The remodeling of the 40-year-old facility meets the needs of modern senior care with a focus on ergonomics, safety and sustainability. The architects ensured optimal use of daylight, common space and connection to nature. A central layout reminiscent of five sakura petals provides both functionality, harmoniously combining modernity with Japanese tradition.
A bird's-eye view of a building shaped like two flowers in a snowy landscape with a road in the background
Photo: Koji Kobayashi/Spiral © waiwai
space revitalization and ergonomic solutions
The Sakura Home center was the result of a major remodeling of an existing building that has been in operation for some forty years. The previous structure, while multi-bedroom and meeting basic needs, needed to be modernized to meet modern standards of care and improve conditions for both residents and staff.
A modern building complex with lighted windows against a snowy landscape at dusk
Photo: Koji Kobayashi/Spiral © waiwai
the psychology of space in the design of nursing homes for seniors
A key design consideration is to take into account the work and convenience of the caregiving staff, thereby increasing the efficiency and quality of care provided. During the day, one caregiver is responsible for ten residents, while at night the number increases to twenty. Proper design of the space allows staff to better manage their time and respond more smoothly to residents' needs, resulting in a higher level of comfort and safety.
Two horizontal sections show the facade and cross-section of a white, modern building with large windows and surrounding trees
pic: © waiwai
A central architectural solution of the project is to optimize traffic and accessibility. Each pair of living units has been connected to a central nursing station, making it much easier for staff to reach patients quickly when needed. As a result , one staff member is able to efficiently serve two units with a total of twenty residents. This ergonomic approach to space planning is crucial in ensuring a high standard of care at the facility.
A large room with a round wooden suspended ceiling and a dark floor
Photo: Koji Kobayashi/Spiral © waiwai
radial space layout—modern nursing home design on a cherry blossom plan
The architectural plan is based on a radial layout, the shape of which resembles five flower petals. This form is not only responsible for the functionality of the building, but also refers symbolically to the "sakura "—the traditional cherry blossom, which has been a symbol of transience and beauty in Japanese culture for centuries. This symbolism further enriches the identity of the building, which serves as a place of support and dignified old age for residents.
Floor plan of the flower petal-shaped building complex with labeled rooms and surrounding landscaped area
pic: © waiwai
wabi-sabi in senior home designs—beauty in simplicity
The entire project is being carried out in cooperation with the renowned Naoyuki Shirakawa Atelier, whose experience in creating friendly, humanistic spaces fits perfectly with the philosophy of this project. This gives Sakura Home the opportunity to become not only a modern care center, but also a place that combines functionality with aesthetics and respect for culture and nature.
A room with large glass windows, a ceiling with wooden slats and a view of the winter landscape
Photo: Koji Kobayashi/Spiral © waiwai
a new approach to spaces for seniors—a reversal of stereotypes in architecture?
The Sakura Home project, created by Naoyuki Shirakawa Atelier, provides inspiration for Poland's challenges in modernizing care for seniors. With the growing demand for quality services, it is crucial to create spaces that combine functionality with comfort and aesthetics. Integration with nature, sustainable architectural solutions and modern technologies such as intelligent management systems can significantly improve the quality of life for residents in Polish nursing homes. Drawing on the experience of the likes of Sakura Home, we can create places that support seniors' active participation in social life and provide them with a sense of security.
Elaborated: Natalia Ledzianowska
Illustrations courtesy of waiwai studio
