This thesis explores how “age-friendly” urban climates can be achieved sustainably in challenging environments, such as the heat-vulnerable neighborhoods of Rotterdam South.
Strategies beyond reducing exposure in the built environment are formed using literature reviews, sociological observations, mapping, and interviews with stakeholders.
The research findings highlight that physical measures to cool outdoor environments are essential, but strengthening social resilience and adaptive capacity is equally important. Mobility barriers, decentralised everyday services, and limited opportunities for intergenerational interaction can heighten heat vulnerability among elderly residents. The response is a set of multi-scalar design guidelines that integrate climate-adaptive architecture with socially inclusive spaces, in the shape of cooling centers, ensuring accessibility, familiarity, and community participation within the neighborhood.
This holistic approach addresses different dimensions of heat vulnerability and creates neighborhoods that are not only cooler but also foster health, autonomy, and social connection across all ages.