Abstract
This multidisciplinary research project explores how co-creating designed living environments together with older people in a nursing home can foster feelings of inclusiveness, democracy, and sustainability. Bringing together perspectives from art, craft, and design, the project positions residents not merely as recipients of care but as active contributors to their own spatial and aesthetic surroundings. Through participatory workshops, collaborative making processes, and iterative design interventions, residents engaged directly in shaping their living environment. Findings indicate that these creative collaborations strengthened residents’ sense of agency, belonging, and mutual care, while also encouraging a democratic dialogue between residents, caregivers, and designers. Moreover, the emphasis on handcrafted and adaptable design elements supported sustainable practices by valuing longevity, repair, and material sensitivity. The project demonstrates an aim of involving older people in co-design processes can meaningfully transform care settings into more inclusive, democratic, and sustainable living environments, and underscores the vital role of art, craft, and design in achieving this transformation.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
The Arts in Social, Political, and Community Life
KEYWORDS
Co-Create, Art, Craft, Designed Living Environment, Sustainability, Nursing Home
