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Description

COMÚNIA stems from a desire to reinterpret the day center as an extension of everyday life. Moving away from clinical or institutional settings, the project proposes a domestic, warm, and familiar environment—an architectural space that supports individuals with early-stage Alzheimer’s without constantly reminding them of their condition. The design draws inspiration from the interplay between homes and the neighborhood square, viewing these areas as settings for social interaction, autonomy, and shared memories. Each floor represents a different way of experiencing the day: the main floor functions like a town square—a space for socializing and activity; the upper floor offers a sanctuary for focus and tranquility; and the lower floor brings together physical, creative, and sensory activities in a flexible setting. A double-height area and a skylight visually connect these spaces through natural light, reinforcing a sense of community and continuity. Every design decision serves a single goal: to foster autonomy, reduce disorientation, and promote emotional wellbeing without resorting to a clinical aesthetic. Signage relies on everyday references, natural materials create a sense of familiarity, lighting follows the daily rhythm without causing glare, and the furniture balances comfort, stability, and freedom of choice. The project avoids overstimulation and infantilization, prioritizing serene, flexible, and emotionally secure spaces where each person can navigate their surroundings with confidence and dignity. More than just a building for people with Alzheimer’s, COMÚNIA offers a place where life can continue normally— maintaining routines, relationships, and a sense of belonging to a community.

Publication Date

2026

City

Madrid

COMÚNIA

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