With an aging population, the design of spaces tailored to the needs of the elderly is gaining importance. Long-term care buildings, which not only offer medical assistance, but also create a comfortable, supportive environment for seniors/seniors, are becoming particularly important. The work of Mateusz Nisiewicz from the Faculty of Architecture at ZUT in Szczecin reflects a comprehensive approach to this issue, taking into account both functionality and aesthetics, as well as modern ecological solutions.
site development plan
© Mateusz Nisiewicz
challenges related to aging society
An aging population is one of the most significant challenges of modern times. By 2050, the number of people over 60 is expected to rise to 2.1 billion, more than double the current figure. The increase in the number of seniors presents architects and designers of new care facilities with the challenge of creating spaces that will not only promote rehabilitation, but also improve the quality of life of the elderly. Mateusz Nisiewicz, in his engineering work, designed a building that meets all these requirements, providing an excellent example of modern and functional architecture dedicated to this user group.
mockup
© Mateusz Nisiewicz
proximity to nature and infrastructure
The location of the building is crucial in providing appropriate conditions for the elderly. Often, nursing homes are located on the outskirts of cities, which limits access to social life and creates difficulties for visitors. The project chose a location in the Niebuszewo-Bolinko district of Szczecin, near the intersection of Niemierzyńska and Papieża Pawła VI streets. This location, close to the Dendrological Garden, creates ideal conditions for building a space conducive to social interaction and contact with nature. In addition, the proximity of the Arkona Hospital ensures safety in case of emergencies, and the landscaping of the site in the form of a slope serves an acoustic function, protecting residents from city noise.
north elevation
© Mateusz Nisiewicz
architectural form
The designed building is a two-story structure with one single-story segment, designed to accommodate people with various types of disabilities. One of the key objectives was to create a human-scale space that does not overwhelm users, but promotes a sense of comfort and safety. The building's façade uses materials in natural tones - beige fiber-cement panels and wooden laths that give the whole building a warm, calm character. In addition, canopies in the form of wooden pergolas in front of the gardens introduce friendly and aesthetic elements. The project also incorporates environmentally friendly solutions, such as photovoltaics on the roof, rainwater recovery and greening of the flat roof, which provides recreational space for residents/residents.
cross-section A-A
© Mateusz Nisiewicz
spaciousness and accessibility
The designed long-term care home provides maximum accessibility and comfort. Parking and the main access to the building are on one level, eliminating vertical architectural barriers, which is crucial for wheelchair users. Transparency of the space ensures ease of orientation in the building, while contrasting signage also allows people with other disabilities to navigate efficiently.
front visualization
© Mateusz Nisiewicz
The building consists of two segments connected by a connector, with spacious atriums that serve both a daylighting and inclusive function. The atria allow people to commune with nature and observe life in the building, which helps relieve stress and stimulates social interaction. Living rooms have been designed with maximum ergonomics in mind, taking into account the needs of people with various disabilities. Room windows face west or east, providing optimal lighting conditions and views of the city's greenery. In addition, some rooms have direct access to gardens located on the roof.
atrium
© Mateusz Nisiewicz
sensory garden
The project also includes a sensory garden, which is an integral part of the building. This garden is designed to support therapy and enhance the well-being of residents through contact with nature. Equipped with landscaping elements such as pergolas, gazebos with colored glass and sensory paths, the garden becomes a space for relaxation and activity. Residents can participate in garden activities, which not only activates, but also promotes social integration. The garden is accessible to all, with no architectural barriers, which allows free access to this space regardless of the degree of disability.
sensory garden
© Mateusz Nisiewicz
comprehensive approach to long-term care
The project "Long-term Care Home for the Elderly in Szczecin" is an example of a modern approach to care architecture. The use of universal design, pro-ecological solutions and the creation of a space conducive to social integration make the facility not only functional, but also friendly to residents. In the face of an aging population, such designs become extremely important, as they provide appropriate living conditions that promote not only health, but also a sense of security and dignity for the elderly.
day room
© Matthew Nisiewicz