Residential Center for Active Aging

International Balkan University

Arbresha Ibrahimi

Project idea

This project proposes a contemporary residential center for independent elderly adults aged 65+ in the Municipality of Centar, Skopje. Instead of a traditional nursing home, it introduces a community-based living environment that combines private apartments with shared social and activity spaces.

The project responds to the growing issue of loneliness and social isolation among elderly people in urban areas, as well as the social stigma surrounding elderly housing in the region. At the same time, it addresses the need for new living models that support dignity, autonomy, and active aging.

The main objective is to redefine elderly housing as an active and inclusive environment that encourages independence while promoting social interaction. The design integrates public-oriented functions such as workshops, a café, gardens, and communal spaces, allowing the building to function as part of the urban fabric.

Project description

The project is organized as two main rectangular volumes connected through a central entrance zone that functions as the main lobby and waiting area. This space acts as the primary point of interaction and orientation within the complex.

One volume contains the administrative program, organized on ground floor plus one level, with independent vertical circulation and access. This separation ensures functional clarity and allows staff operations to function independently from residential areas.

The second volume contains the residential program. The ground floor includes all shared public and communal functions such as the workshop (sewing, woodworking, painting), multipurpose hall, reading area, fitness and yoga room, nurse and therapist office, and access to the outdoor garden with a greenhouse. The upper levels are dedicated to residential units for independent elderly living.

The spatial organization ensures clear functional zoning while maintaining strong connectivity between private and shared spaces, supporting both autonomy and social interaction.

Technical information

The building is designed as a low- to mid-rise structure composed of two main volumes connected by a central entrance/lobby zone. Each volume has its own circulation system to ensure functional independence, particularly between administrative and residential areas.

The structural system is based on a steel column framework with reinforced concrete slab foundations, allowing flexible spatial organization and clear separation of functions.

The façade is defined by a combination of wood cladding, large glazed openings, and integrated greenery. Vegetation is incorporated into balcony spaces, forming a continuous green layer across the residential volume. This enhances the connection between interior and exterior spaces while contributing to a warm, human-scale architectural expression and improved environmental comfort.

Sustainability strategies include natural ventilation, optimized daylight use, and the integration of landscaped outdoor areas, including a garden and greenhouse, which support microclimatic regulation and user wellbeing.

All spaces are designed according to universal design principles, ensuring full accessibility, wheelchair accessibility, and safety for elderly users.

Documentation

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