Independent: Healing Spaces for Dementia Care through Therapeutic Architecture

The winning project "Independent" by Klaudia Druszcz and Małgorzata Rajkowska is a response to the rising number of people in South Korea suffering from dementia and the growing challenges of an aging society. This award-winning entry from the Mnemonic competition merges traditional Korean building techniques with therapeutic architecture, aiming to create a safe, healing, and self-sustaining environment.

Therapeutic Design Rooted in Tradition

This day care center, located in Yangsan, South Korea, embraces both tradition and modernity. It provides a human-scaled, self-navigable environment that offers familiarity and peace to its residents. Inspired by traditional Hanok architecture, the layout evokes comfort and cognitive recognition, crucial for those struggling with memory and neurological disorders.

The architectural strategy fosters autonomy by enabling movement without constant caregiver assistance. Transparent partitions, color-coded buildings, and simplified interiors contribute to intuitive navigation, while landscaped courtyards filled with nature serve as sensory stimulants that reduce anxiety and enhance mental well-being.

Designing for Dementia: Beyond Aesthetics

The project’s innovation lies in its comprehensive approach to dementia care. Rather than following institutional standards, "Independent" challenges the conventional care model by asking: What kind of environment promotes peace of mind? The facility is designed to house 70 patients, with space for 40 visitors including staff, volunteers, and family.

Key spaces include:

• Meditation pavilion, tea room, and chapel
• Gardens for communal plant cultivation
• Therapy zones: audio-visual room, computer lab, gym, art studio
• Shared dining areas for building community
• Quiet zones for solitude and recovery

This layout promotes physical, emotional, and social well-being through spatial coherence and meaningful engagement.

Sustainability and Cultural Continuity

The design prioritizes ecological responsibility by using local, natural materials like wood, stone, and clay. The use of Korean pine aligns with forestry policies while maintaining a low carbon footprint.

Moreover, the construction leverages vernacular knowledge and sustainable practices — including sun orientation, natural ventilation, and acoustic comfort — to create a facility that is energy-efficient and culturally respectful.

Context and Connectivity

Located near the medical faculties of Busan University, the site ensures easy accessibility via existing transport systems. This connectivity supports integration with medical staff and research institutions, while the village-like structure fosters community among patients, families, and caregivers.

A New Standard for Elderly and Dementia Care

"Independent" exemplifies how therapeutic architecture can humanize elder care. It creates an environment where patients can live with dignity and autonomy, supported by design rather than restrained by it.

In a society where chronic disease and aging are prevalent, this project offers an architectural solution that is not just about healthcare — but about quality of life.