It always makes sense to create spaces for seniors that are universally accessible and flexible to accommodate a variety of activities. We challenged ourselves to design this Senior Center beyond a mere ADA compliant space and to create a facility that offers a sense of a community with opportunities to engage with diverse social settings.
An ample and uninterrupted area was purposely planned immediately after the front reception to accommodate multiple activities such as game area, lounge, coffee station and three billiard tables. This open space will spatially aid the activities and visually promotes interests of the observers. A combination of these two stimulants can further encourage old adults to socialize with peers in a positive way. This synergic reaction, symbolically called the ‘ripple effect’, was echoed on the space planning dividing the facility into 3 following major areas:
The Lobby, being the core of the ripple where all activities are registered and information is distributed, is the center of all subsequent curved walls defining adjacent spaces. All individuals visiting the center must walk through the Main Gathering space immediately after the lobby. This encourages them to be seen and see others thus a natural mingling is expected. Finally the Instructional spaces can be reached after navigating through the social space. Built-in display cases serve to exhibit seniors’ art work and also functions as windows to visually connect the classrooms from the corridor.
Promoting a sense of belonging and self-worth through social participation can prevent from lack of motivation and depression. A methodical space planning that encourages socialization is essential especially designing a facility for older adults.
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