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Future-Proof Homes. Design Support System for Selecting Age-Adaptive Building Elements and Finishes
Federica Romagnoli1, Teresa Villani1
1Department of Planning, Design, Architectural Technology, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|November 19, 2024
Summary
This study introduces a design tool for selecting home interior finishes and partition systems. It supports Universal Design principles, enabling adaptable homes for aging in place.
Area of Science:
- Architecture
- Gerontology
- Design Science
Background:
- Designing age-friendly living spaces is crucial for supporting independent living.
- Homes need to adapt to evolving user needs throughout the life course.
- Universal Design principles promote inclusivity and long-term usability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define a home adaptation design support tool for interior finishes and partition systems.
- To integrate multicriteria evaluations aligned with Universal Design.
- To facilitate aging in place by addressing changing life needs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review to identify optimal requirements for age-friendly living spaces.
- Application of multicriteria analysis using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP).
- Development of selection criteria and weighting for product classification.
Main Results:
- Identified key requirements: safety, comfort, usability, management, environmental protection, and integrability.
- Established a framework for evaluating partitioning elements and interior finishes.
- Weighted criteria allow classification of market-available products based on performance.
Conclusions:
- The developed tool supports designers and end-users in selecting appropriate interior finishes and partition systems.
- The approach promotes the creation of adaptable homes that support aging in place.
- Multicriteria evaluation based on Universal Design principles enhances home suitability over time.
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