THE ELDERLY AS THE �OTHER � ARCHITECT: A STUDY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE ELDERLY �S DIMINISHED FUNCTIONAL ABILITIES AND THE RESULTANT APPROPRIATION AND ADAPTATION OF SPACE AND SPATIAL ELEMENTS

Abstract

Man and the body have in many instances displayed the power and ability to fight and reclaim what belongs to us. Not only is architecture shaped after us, man has the ability to shape architecture. Even after a building or space is constructed, it is continuously changing and shaped by its inhabitants. The body is able to subvert the intention of designs in various extents. The phenomenon of desire paths is a classic example of how people have chosen to go against the design of urban designers and rather, create their own paths and shortcuts that are more efficient and effective. Another example, staircases and steps are conventionally designed as a vertical circulation device, but it is a common sight to find people sitting around flight of stairs. The steps become more like a recreational space instead of merely for circulation. “The human ageing process does not only change the individual’s physical appearance and spatial behaviour, it also influences the perception of space and the amount of space that the older person appropriates.”1 The elderly population is a particular group of users who can be regarded as the potential ‘other’ architect due to the need to compensate for their impairments. From daily household objects to outdoor public spaces, how differently do the elderly use them?