Abstract:
Architecture is not only just a thing to "see" but also a thing to be "felt". It is much more than
just the aesthetics of a space or formal beauty. The experiences one has when he or she is in a
space and what those experiences cause should also be one of the design intentions. Every
space induces a different experience, evokes certain emotion, and recalls a particular memory.
Among other design objectives, an architect also tries to design spaces which hold a positive
impact on the users' mind. For example, a four sided room with a window on one wall opens to
a courtyard reminds one of the golden time they spent with their family decades ago. One
yearns for the places in which he felt secure, comfortable and at home. The desirefor such
homely spaces is natural in every human being but it is a little more in those who are deprived
of these spaces and long to return back to that time. These are the people who are homeless
and are in search of a place that instills in them a sense of belonging and a feeling of ownership.
Old aged people realize the importance of these places more as they experience major part of
their lives spent there.
Designing a facility that makes the elderly homeless people of our society, relive the moments
which they spent with their families and providing them a space which frames nostalgic
moments for them can help improve their mental health. It can also inculcate in them a sense
- of security, social acceptability and a feeling of belonging. When they feel comfortable in a space, they can practice their lifelong skills and become a productive member of the society.
This also helps in negating the fact that the elderly are mere passive recipients of care.
