2017
Dindaeng Services Center for the Elderly
— Interior Architecture Design Thesis
Public Services Center for the Elderly
The Dindaeng Services Center for the Elderly aims to develop an ideal daycare center for elders in Bangkok. The center is a one-stop service that provides helpful information and assistance for older people, including a Day Care Center for daily visits and an Emergency Care Center, specialized for groups of the elderly needing short-term residence.
Challenges.
The center requires an effective architectural design to create contemporary services adaptable for the future with its changing dynamics and aging society. The challenge lies within the existing building structure and environment that need to be carefully considered and reappropriated to the needs of the elderly, physical, emotional, and financial concerns— regarding the government-run center.
Concept.
Through user research and site visits, from a design viewpoint, the Dindaeng Services Center for the Elderly aims to deliver the concept of ‘Active Aging,’ which encourages people to maintain positive individual well-being and good mental, physical, and social health throughout their lives. The architecture, interior space, and landscape are designed to be connected to support various and flexible activities. The design considers the quality of space in which people embrace nature to let the elderly achieve a peaceful state of mind. The space is designed to promote socialization and encourage people to mingle and lead meaningful lives.
Activities area, workshop, multi-purpose, etc., are zoned consequently near the main entrance. The L shape land provides a private and tranquil atmosphere. The emergency Care Center (EEC) is in a private area to protect users’ privacy. A tranquil area for spiritual activities is placed where high trees omit noise pollution from outside.
Materials used in this project are designed to help those with impaired eyesight, which is common to older people. Floor and ceiling planes use lighter shades of materials, whereas the vertical planes are darker. Also, studies show that softer shades of red or orange can help improve energy levels and blood circulation and work well with the eyes. Therefore, these colors are used to accentuate some areas.
