Issue 12
 

Europe's rapidly aging population is giving architects a constant stream of opportunities for creating modern and comfortable environments for the elderly. The new Heiveld retirement center near Ghent, Belgium, provides an interesting example. A low-rise complex of two-story buildings, Heiveld houses about 240 residents over the age of 60. The facility is managed by OCMW, a local governmental organization.

The initial building design specified relatively large areas of glazing on the sun-facing facades to provide daylighting and attractive views for residents. Soon after the building opened, however, residents and employees started experiencing overheating and glare issues. As a result, OCMW architect Jean-Marie van Heste began working with a Dutch team of solar-control experts from Hunter Douglas. Since residents are largely sedentary, it was also vital the system did not obstruct visibility to the surrounding landscape.
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USA:  Immaculate Heart of Mary Motherhouse
Architect: Susan Maxman & Part.

Australia:  Kyneton Health Service
Architect: Lyons Melbourne


Japan:  Niigata U. of Health & Welfare
Architect: Crais Plan
 
 

Brazil:  Oswaldo Cruz Hospital
Architect: Botti-Rubin


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