Students of the Warsaw University of Technology honored in an international competition!

08 of April '24

South elevation - residential part

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Modern societies are facing the challenge of an aging population, which brings many challenges, including the problem of isolation and marginalization of the elderly. A group of students from Warsaw University of Technology, Aleksandra Adamska, Zofia Gancarczyk, Klaudia Kochanowska and Krystian Kubat, decided to address this issue through the project "Aging Together: Seniors at the Heart of Urban Renewal." Their innovative idea received an honorable mention in the international competition "Beyond Isolation: Senior Housing", organized by Buildner. The competition jury included Flora Lee of MAD Architects and Adam Frampton of Only If.

The goal of the international competition was to mitigate the effects of isolation experienced by an aging population worldwide. Paying attention to the problem of loneliness among the elderly, they were looking for high-quality housing designs and housing strategies with features that allow seniors to engage in neighborhood life. The location of the project could have been any, students from the Warsaw University of Technology chose an existing pavilion in Warsaw's Żoliborz district for the purpose.

axonometry - current state

The project focuses on creating spaces that stimulate social integration of the elderly and support the development of local communities. It is based on two main pillars: adaptive rehabilitation of a neglected modernist pavilion and creation of modern and open spaces that foster social integration. Through the use of a sophisticated spatial layout, including a variety of room types integrated with private and semi-private zones, the developers have enabled natural interaction between different age groups. The main courtyard serves as a community center for seniors, becoming a place to meet, share experiences and form new interpersonal bonds.

axonometry - design

One of the key elements of the project is also the development of the urban fabric. By transforming the existing pavilion, it is possible to improve the living conditions of the elderly, as well as revitalize the urban landscape. The re-adapted modernist pavilion is becoming a focal point for residents of the surrounding neighborhoods, attracting a variety of social groups and having a positive impact on the local community.

green courtyard

Designing spaces for the elderly is a complex process, requiring both architectural knowledge and empathy and understanding of the needs of this senior community. The students used their personal experience in caring for the elderly, which helped them understand the needs and expectations of this social group. As a result, the project not only provides innovative architectural solutions, but also fits in with long-term social and urban planning goals, contributing to the creation of more open, integrated and senior-friendly communities.

outdoor common space

The design utilizes technologies such as curtain walling and CLT structures to provide a harmonious connection to the historic pavilion, underscoring the project's commitment to sustainable and aesthetically pleasing architectural solutions. As a result, the site not only serves a social function, but also becomes an example of good design with contemporary social and environmental challenges in mind.

site development plan

"Aging Together: Seniors at the Heart of Urban Renewal" is an excellent example of interdisciplinary cooperation and community involvement in creating better living conditions for the elderly. Its effective implementation can have a positive impact not only on the seniors themselves, but also on the entire community and the surrounding urban landscape.