Habitation is a process that evolves under the influence of social, technological and ecological changes. Kaja Czajczyk in her doctoral dissertation "New models of habitation.Paraarchitectural Configurations," written under the supervision of Prof. Beata Gibala-Kapecka at the Academy of Fine Arts in Krakow, analyzes new forms of residential spaces. It focuses on changes in modes of habitation in the face of dynamic changes in reality, such as global climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. The work is interdisciplinary, combining elements of architecture, urban planning and research on human relations in the context of habitation. The research has produced spatial models that illustrate new ways of organizing everyday life.
mental models
© Kaja Czajczyk
habitation space as a dynamic reality
Kaja Czajczyk emphasizes that the pandemic has significantly altered the relationship between a person and his or her dwelling place. The domestic space has become a place for rest, work, education and recreation. Many people began to adapt their dwellings to new functions, which influenced the development of modern models of habitation. In an era of global climate and geopolitical changes, it has also become necessary to take into account aspects of security and flexibility of living spaces. The researcher notes that the home has ceased to be merely a private place, and has become a multifunctional environment that must respond to the changing needs of the users/users.
mental models
© Kaja Czajczyk
The author used a multi-stage qualitative research, including email surveys and face-to-face interviews. Respondents answered questions about their experiences of living before and after the pandemic. Based on this research, mental models were created that interpret residents'/residents' relationships with the space and their expectations for the future. The next step was to design intentional models to visualize different ways of organizing the space according to the needs of the users/occupants. Eventually, new models of inhabitation were developed that take into account both the functional and emotional dimensions of home space.
Model II, a place of refuge
© Kaja Czajczyk
new habitation models and para-architectural configurations
Kaja Czajczyk has created three basic models of residential enclaves to suit different lifestyles. The single model is a space designed for a single person, providing both privacy and flexibility in interior design. The model for a couple involves shared space, but also separate individual zones. The model for a family takes into account multifunctionality and adaptability to the changing needs of household members. Each of these models takes into account both ergonomic and aesthetic aspects, placing great emphasis on the atmosphere of the interior and its impact on the well-being of the occupants.
model III, common space
© Kaja Czajczyk
The notions of mental and intentional models also appear in the work, providing the foundation for the designed spaces. Mental models are interpretations of the experiences of residents/residents, while intentional models are specific design solutions that result from these experiences. A key element of the work is to show how the relationship between humans and residential space is changing in the context of new global challenges.
model IV, an enclave for a single
© Kaja Czajczyk
the era of the anthropocene and the future of habitation
The Anthropocene era, characterized by the dominant human impact on the environment, calls for new solutions in the design of living spaces. Climate change, urbanization and the development of technology are forcing a rethinking of the function of houses and apartments. Czajczyk stresses that the future of habitation should be based on green technologies, flexible spatial layouts and systems that ensure the safety of users/users. The paper also introduces the concept of "adaptive space," i.e. space that can change its functions depending on the needs of the residents/occupants.
Model IV, an enclave for a 1+1 couple
© Kaja Czajczyk
The doctoral dissertation suggests that understanding the multifaceted nature of the process will be key to the future of habitation. The researcher draws attention to the role of space in creating a sense of security and identity. New models of habitation are not only a response to current needs, but also an attempt to predict the directions in which forms of habitation will develop in the future.
Model IV, an enclave for a 2+2 family
© Kaja Czajczyk
Kaja Czajczyk's work is an important contribution to the discussion of habitation as a dynamic process that is constantly changing. Her research shows that contemporary residential models should take into account not only functional, but also emotional and social aspects, creating spaces that are adapted to the new challenges of today.
