This research explores the evolving role of shopping malls in the lives of the growing elderly population in the Netherlands. Delving into the unique needs and desires of the elderly, the study emphasizes diversity, accessibility, community, and inclusivity within shopping centres. The research methodology integrates a comprehensive literature review, a case study of elderly-cantered architectural designs, and structured interviews with elderly individuals. Contrary to the prevalent literature portraying the elderly as fragile and facing significant challenges, the interviews unveil a diverse reality of ageing, emphasizing individuality and varied impacts on daily life. The case study elucidates themes of mobility and social community as crucial elements in the design of age-inclusive spaces. By integrating these perspectives, the research concludes that a one-size-fits-all blueprint for shopping malls is inadequate. Instead, designers should focus on incorporating practical amenities, a diverse shopping environment, promoting community, and ensuring accessibility to cater to the broad spectrum of elderly needs and preferences. Furthermore, the study advocates for ongoing research to understand how the ageing population’s needs influence urban environments and various functions within these spaces. Ultimately, this research envisions an age-inclusive future, where cities and spaces are designed to meet the evolving requirements of an ageing population, promoting inclusive and enjoyable environments for all.

This research and design explores holistic sustainability as a remedy for long term development of modern shopping malls in the Netherlands. Shopping malls are susceptible to changes and sometimes fail to create an equal balance between the environmental, social and economic aspects of sustainability, leading to vacant shops and lower quality of living in and around the mall. The insights presented in the research paper, which assess the impact of past mall renovations on the three aspects of sustainability can be used to make future redesigns on modern shopping malls better resilient to changes and promote a long lasting life. For the design "In de Bogaard" (Rijswijk) was chosen to apply the strategy of transforming a mall in a holistic sustainable way into a food court, indoor market and culture centre. Reducing, reusing and refilling are found at the heart of this discipline and tackle the design question of dealing with modern heritage.