A Courtyard of Care: Designing for Dementia in the Urban Fabric
2026 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
This thesis project examines the relationship between architecture and dementia, exploring how spatial design can support people whose perception, memory and orientation are increasingly challenged. As dementia affects the way space is experienced and understood, the project investigates how architecture can foster well-being, autonomy and social participation.
In response to the growing need for intermediate forms of care, the project proposes a day center for people in the early and middle stages of dementia in central Stockholm. Rather than isolating care on the urban periphery, the project integrates it into everyday urban life, enabling people with dementia to remain active members of society.
Inspired by dementia-friendly design principles and the idea of wandering as a spatial experience, the building is organized as a continuous sequence of spaces that encourages intuitive movement and social interaction. Particular emphasis is placed on relationship between indoor and outdoor space, with courtyards becoming integral parts of daily life. Through flexible communal and therapeutic environments, the project seeks to support independence, participation and a dignified approach to dementia care.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2026.
Series
TRITA-ABE-MBT-26106
Keywords [en]
dementia, elderly-care, urban, Östermalm
National Category
Architecture
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:kth:diva-384827OAI: oai:DiVA.org:kth-384827DiVA, id: diva2:2084177
Educational program
Master of Science - Architecture
Supervisors
Examiners
2026-07-032026-07-03