Candice Doreski
Bachelor of Interior Design
Social hub for the elderly within the Western suburbs of Sydney
Due to recent circumstances, the realities of ageing and its adverse effects on all aspects of wellbeing became evident, as this took a toll on not only the individual but the support network that encompasses them. This project noted how the physical, emotional and social aspects of wellbeing were negatively affected, and how producing this program and interior space would counteract the declination of health within the aged community, especially where language barriers are concerned.
CHATTER HOUSE
SUMMARY
The site that was selected for this project was the Our Lady of Victories Church which resides in Horsley Park. This European catholic church contributes by creating a sense of unity and identity amongst the users, due to the vast religious beliefs that exist within the Fairfield City Council.
Additionally, the program strongly recommends optimising the outdoor areas as much as possible, for two reasons. Firstly, to bring the elderly out of their regular isolation within their own homes, there has to be a break in the cycle. Therefore, re-introducing time spent outside is highly beneficial. Secondly, research shows the subjective wellbeing is significantly improved when amongst plants, trees and engaging with this biophilia (e.g. planting flowers or vegetables).
RESEARCH & PROCESS
FINAL WORK
The design language that is utilised for this project derived from the initial concept of ‘cocooning’; an ironic statement that encourages elderly people to “go back” into the cocoon, a safe place where they are nurtured to grow within their physical, emotional and social wellbeing amongst like-minded people. This implies a skeletal form, comprised of organic and linear structures through using warm timbers that compliment that existing structure and its materiality. The materiality suggests cultural appreciation through the textures and colours used through each space/”cocoon”, which includes the variety of culture that exists within these Western suburbs of Sydney.