How does architecture contribute to this connection, and thus to more social interaction and spontaneous encounters? The answer goes beyond just a well-thought-out design. The application of principles from environmental psychology plays a crucial role here. By integrating this knowledge into our designs, we, as architects, can create buildings that form an optimal match between the environment and the user. In the design process, we continuously ask the question: How can the design enhance the experience of the space, bring people together, and strengthen the connection with the environment and the sense of community?
This question is more relevant than ever in a society that is becoming increasingly individualized. People find it harder to identify with their street, neighborhood, or city. Time to actively participate in local activities is limited, and the gap between generations, educational levels, and backgrounds is growing. This presents an important social responsibility for us as architects. Public buildings, whether they are educational institutions, sports centers, or care complexes, can play a crucial role in bringing people together and fostering connection.
Integrated children and elderly centre, Noord -Scharwoude (The Netherlands)
This is also the case with the integral child and elder center (ICEC) in Noord-Scharwoude, an initiative of the Municipality of Dijk and Waard, Horizon Zorgcentrum (a care institution) and Allente (an organization for education and childcare). This is not just a building; it represents a miniature society. With shared facilities for all ages and specific spaces for care and education, the ICEC is a place where generations meet and enrich each other in everyday life. Think of children inviting seniors to a performance, seniors reading a book with children, or baking gingerbread cookies together during Saint Nicholas Day.
How do you ensure that such an initiative works in practice? For this reason, the design of the ICEC has no thresholds. The building is transparent in its layout. Functions that encourage joint activities are located near centrally positioned communal spaces. Sightlines invite moments of contact. These kinds of subtle architectural interventions enhance interaction and cohesion between young and old. It is designed in such a way that you want to be part of it, and you feel like you matter.
