Page 6 of Design for our future selves 2001 Awards by Helen Hamlyn Research Centre - Royal College of Art

4 Robin Blanchard/Architecture Interiors relationshipping The paradox that senior citizens face is that as physical capabilities diminish, new networks that are aimed at bringing people together remain largely inaccessible. Geriatric ghettoising is often seen as a solution. This architectural study proposes the introduction of concentrated local space acting as the interface between pensioner and city, allowing older people the choice to remain as participating members of their communities for longer. Segregation is parallel to imprisonment whereas demographic diversity creates a group of dependables rather than dependants. The resulting shared community provides a sense of belonging, self-worth, and enjoyment for both older and younger members.

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