Work submitted for the competition
"Best Diploma Architecture"
The thesis consists of two compatible elements: an analysis of spatial needs for people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities, on the basis of which the concept of a model universal way of designing a center using a tool such as modular architecture was created.
types of centers
© Magdalena Czopka
The research work allowed me to distinguish four variants of center development. Such a design assumption is intended to systematize, to normalize the most important aspects of this type of centers. Assumptions differ primarily in location, form of development, group of users with special needs and functions located in a given center. I was keen not to create enclaves closed to society, but a place conducive to integration and "taming" the concept of intellectual disability.
block, axonometry and view from the garden
© Magdalena Czopka
What fate awaits sick people after the death of their caregivers? Who will provide them with an adequate livelihood? It's not about the bare minimum of existence, but care at a sufficiently high level, taking care of multifaceted development. The theme of disability has long been present in architectural and urban design, but centers of this type in Poland still do not have a standardized design system, their number is insufficient, and the quality of public facilities leaves much to be desired. They are most often built on the initiative of parents or foundations, the budget is insufficient, and there are far more willing residents than available places.
infill building, axonometry and visualization
© Magdalena Czopka
Few disabilities are fraught with as many myths as Down syndrome. Meanwhile, it is a genetic defect that causes abnormalities in the body that require, like other conditions, appropriate developmental support. To expand knowledge on the subject, I decided to use the scientific method of a diagnostic survey. The basis for the design guidelines was to conduct seven interviews with institutions supporting people with intellectual disabilities, a psychologist (work progress consultation) and a parent of a child with Down syndrome, to analyze scientific publications, articles and films on the subject.
single-storey building, axonometry and garden elevation
© Magdalena Czopka
The solution to many of the problems I was able to isolate after the interviews was to create a system for designing centers that would enable them to be implemented as cheaply and quickly as possible, resulting in an increase in the number of facilities. I created the system using a tool such as modular architecture, combining the individual functions like building blocks assembling into a whole. But how to test whether a system works in reality, and how to prove its plasticity and flexibility? So I identified four types of centers to translate the design idea into architecture.
hamlet, axonometry and visualization
© Magdalena Czopka
The basic principle I followed was to break the taboo and show that illness is a natural part of our lives. Instead of pretending that there is no problem, it is worth focusing on minimizing it and concrete solutions. Realizing that the subject is very complex on many levels, in my work I aimed to show the possibilities that architecture has, that it can also be a tool to help others.
Magdalena CZOPKA
Illustrations: © Author
