Location: Tianjin, China.

Architect: Shanghai Tianhua Architectural Design.

The project is located in Hotai Town, Xiqing District, Tianjin, and was designed to transform an inactive concrete frame office building into a warm and modern retirement centre. The primary problem was the spatial division caused by the original column network, so the designers optimized the layout strategy after calculating the proportion of multi-round space allocation. The 96 original pillars were allocated to the space outside the bedrooms and cleverly integrated into toilets and public areas. To ensure service efficiency, logistics supporting spaces are centralized in areas where lighting is unfavourable and streamlined crossing is reduced.

To create a better lighting environment and a more relaxing public space, designers opened up the middle areas of 3, 4, and 5 layers to build a widespread while poor lighting space. The setting of the “tree” in the atrium harmonizes with the excessive sculpture feeling and gives the space a sense of centrality. The temperament of “Autumn Tree” dominates the interior colour and material system, creating a mild spatial character. The 2.1 m wide corridor is equipped with anti-skid glue, soft structural lines, chamfered furniture and other suitable ageing details to ensure the safety of walking for the elderly.

The interior design of Yiyuan Pension Center reflects the spirit of people-oriented design, with ivory white and warm orange as the main tone, green fresh and active colour elements, and warm sunshine outside the window. The designer set up public service space around the atrium, and a transition space between the atrium and the more private housing area for the elderly. The service desk is located at the central point of the T-type nursing line to ensure service vision and nursing service.