The name of the competition quite clearly explains its purpose: creative ideas for housing that would alleviate the problem of isolation experienced by aging populations. Many architecture designers from around the world found the theme attractive and meaningful. Their projects were assessed by an esteemed international jury panel.
Natalia Dembińska is in the second year of her studies at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Environmental Engineering. She has already gained some design experience by completing internships in France and Spain. She has also been successful in a number architectural competitions, yet this is the first international triumph for her.
In the competition, Natalia submitted a project of a home for seniors in Łódź having given it the name Better Together. ‘The designed structure blends the contemporary with the traditional. The idea that informed its design was to mimic a residential neighborhood in a single building. Creating a sense of community is crucial for senior homes and spaces designed for this demographic. My project is designed to make it possible.’, the designer explained her motivation.
The key ideas in the conceptualization of the design of the building and the surrounding space were independence, integration, and multifunctionality. The name Better together reflects the author’s view of architecture as an important factor structuring society.
Natalia further remarked: ‘The project addresses the challenges of old age. The overall intention was to design a welcoming space; one where the residents would feel at home, yet where they could be provided with age-appropriate care. Beyond that, the goal was to shift the perception of this type of facilities and show how important it is to take a holistic approach to their design.’
The project previously won the SARP award for the best bachelor degree project in 2023. It was prepared under the supervision of dr inż. arch. Joanna Borowczyk who now supervises Natalia’s master degree project.
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