The ageing population in the Netherlands leads to an increasing demand for suitable housing typologies for older adults. The older generation remains in their family home due to financial and social factors. The problem is clearly visible in Houtwijk, a neighborhood in The Hague. A large amount of residents lives in these family homes without needing the space, but alternative, independent housing for this generation is lacking. In addition, a significant part struggles with the social dilemma of having to move to another neighborhood and potentially losing their social network.

This research focuses on the question of how housing for older adults can be spatially designed to support active ageing, while promoting housing flow in Houtwijk. The theoretical foundation was formed by the concept of active ageing, in which health, independence, social participation and a familiar environment were central.

The research shows that the existing housing stock in Houtwijk aligns insufficiently with the needs of the ageing population. But, the older residents in Houtwijk have a strong connection to their neighborhood and are willing to relocate if they are able to keep living within their familiar environment. The factors of independence, privacy, accessibility and the possibility of social encounters are crucial.

Based on the results, a housing complex has been designed. It combines independent living with collective facilities and a publicly accessible courtyard. Within this design, water is the main design instrument. The water supports active ageing on different levels: it stimulates movement through recreational and physical activities, promotes social interactions through several meeting spaces and contributes to mental health through calming sensory experiences.

In addition to its benefits for human experience, water also has many ecological qualities and contributes to the environment, other species and the climate.

The design shows that architecture has an important contribution to the wellbeing of older adults and the existing housing possibilities within a neighborhood. By creating an attractive, accessible and socially connected living environment, older adults are stimulated to relocate within their comfort while helping free up larger homes for younger generations. The combination of age-friendly homes, communal spaces, clear transitions between public and private domains, and the integration of water forms a spatial strategy that supports both active ageing and the future development of Houtwijk. ... Read more

The urban plan of Pendrecht was influenced by the principles of the functional city, emphasizing the separation of functions. This was implemented through residential blocks clustered around communal gardens. Distances within the district were designed to be walkable, making it easy for children to explore. Car-free zones and roads for destination traffic were introduced to separate traffic from residential and recreational areas. This layout impacted both the physical structure and social interactions within the community.
The functional separation of Pendrecht led to both connectedness and isolation. While isolation limited social interaction and created physical separation from the surrounding environment, communal gardens and public spaces promoted social cohesion. Pendrecht was designed as an independent neighborhood with its own shops, schools, and churches. This allowed women and children to live mostly within the neighborhood without relying on Rotterdam. However, accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists to the city and surrounding areas was limited.
In the 1950s, women were often housewives with limited opportunities for paid employment. Social interactions, housekeeping, and motherly roles were central to their daily lives. The walkable neighborhood and pedestrian-only center made car ownership unnecessary for women. As a result, their freedom of movement and social interaction was significant within Pendrecht, but the need to leave the neighborhood was negligible.
Pendrecht offered green and play areas for younger children, but the lack of connection to surrounding areas limited older children’s exploration. This isolation restricted their social and spatial development. However, the green spaces and play areas created a safe environment for younger children. These areas were easily navigable, allowing mothers to supervise their children. The urban plan prioritized play areas and public green spaces near the building blocks. Sufficient parking was provided to prevent cars from overtaking these areas.
The separation of functions created a form of isolation. Connections with the city were primarily necessary for working men and had little impact on the daily lives of women and children. While the urban plan fostered a sense of community within the district, it also led to a degree of isolation. Traditional gender roles confined women’s daily lives to the home, and interactions were largely limited to the neighborhood. Nonetheless, the walkable design, local shops, and communal areas provided opportunities for social cohesion, while green areas offered children the freedom to play. This contributed to a sense of connection and community.

This research shows that functional separation in Pendrecht was not only a spatial strategy but also a form of social and spatial isolation, particularly for women and children. The neighborhood offered many opportunities for interaction within its boundaries but limited connections beyond. The separation fostered strong internal community yet contributed to a closed-off position.
The key contribution of this thesis is the argument that the functional layout of Pendrecht can also be understood as a form of social isolation. This insight highlights how urban planning can have social consequences, especially when intersecting with traditional gender roles. ... Read more