The Wave
1100 Harbor Ave SW, Seattle
The design started out to be a vision for an assisted living facility located in Seattle. Through senior interviews, three main design goals were formulated. The project centers around the idea of living in harmony with nature, promote independence, and increasing resident mobility.
Interior Design
Process
Vision 1
Vision 2
Vision 3
In the design process, I started out by drawing the shape of the dining room. After an array of ideas and sketches, I decided on vision 3, which is inspired by the average rising angle of deep-water waves. The 20 degree angle within the center of the project is able to boast an unparalleled view and interaction with nature, as well as providing every resident with easy access to the shared spaces.
Rough Sketch 1
Rough Sketch 2
Furniture
In order to fully realize the three design goals, research was conducted to make sure that residents can receive the best experience possible. Living in Harmony with Nature is one of the most important goals of the project and is proven to “lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood” (Robbins, 2020). One of the ways I attempted to increase natural elements was through the use of neutral colors as well as natural materials like wood and marble.
Moss Wall
Every room inside is able to have an unobstructed view of nature. These carefully selected elements are what I hope to improve resident mood and provide residents with a home away from home.
Suspended Ceiling
Soundsticks®
Cooking Club
Yoga Club
Another design goal is the promotion of independence. According to the National Institutes of Health, independent living show potential to alter health behaviors, improve general health perception and self-efficacy, and promote independence in older people. One way my project increases independence is through the creation of a greenhouse. Residents are able to plant and then sell their grown products at the designated market place in front of the assisted living facility.
Green Roof
Sun Room
Courtyard 1
On the left are some of my inspirations that led to the creation of this facility. The first image is Wingspread by Frank Lloyd Wright, which helped me understand the concept of compression and expansion. This design strategy is employed in the reception of the building, and is intended to create a delightful effect for all the residents.
Greenhouse
At The Wave, we hope our residents would be able to promote independence by fostering a community. For example, the open kitchen layout in the central area allow all residents to make food together and even have yoga classes in the courtyard. Through my senior interview, one of the most essential feedback I received was the problem of seasonal affective disorder during the winter month of pacific northwest. To tackle this issue, a sunroom is set up with a 10,000 lumens LED panel.
The third design goal was increasing resident mobility. According to the NIH, increased resident mobility allow older adults to perform daily activities more easily and safely and continue to live as independently as possible. With the introduction of an atrium in the middle of the building and two walking gardens, residents will appreciate the ability to feel and see nature while staying dry.
Night View of Interior Dining Space
