PW Shonan Fujisawa 老年公寓

Press Kit

Unique Properties

Research focused on balancing functionality and design for independent senior living and engagement with the local community. Methods included site analysis and case studies, including some testing such as chair mock-ups for sitting, standing, and evaluating lighting plans to ensure balance between safety, comfort, and attractive lighting, among other tests. Data informed participatory, lighting, and furniture design. These efforts foster multigenerational engagement and local revitalization.

Dimensions & Packaging

Site area: 18,536.77sqm
Total floor area: 45,345.44sqm

Tags

senior, residence, residential, architecture, interior, landscape

Production Technology

The shared building features a beach-inspired lounge, cafe, and bathing facilities on the first floor, and a seaside villa-inspired restaurant and library on the third. Handrails integrated with half-walls, wheelchair-friendly tables, and modular public spaces ensure safety and accessibility without compromising design quality. Natural circulation paths and interior greenery connect residents with communal areas, balancing functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Design Challenge

Fujisawa SST faced challenges of low foot traffic and a lack of multi-generational interaction. Objective: To solve these local issues by designing a senior residence as a new community destination. We placed a public cafe, plaza, and garden along key circulation paths. This created a new hub for specific multi-generational activities, presenting a model where design successfully generates both community vibrancy and social interaction.

Research

Balancing senior safety with high-quality design was the central challenge. Lighting, handrails, chairs supporting easy sitting and standing, and accessible tables were designed. While conventional residences often sacrifice aesthetics for functionality, this project integrates both, achieving a five-star hotel-like quality. Attention to material selection, furniture, and interior landscaping further enhanced the residential experience while meeting all safety and accessibility standards.

Inspiration

Conventional senior homes often limit healthy, independent seniors to a life constrained by care needs, with few opportunities for social interaction or personal choice. This project was inspired by the desire to offer autonomy, social engagement, and personalized daily experiences later life, integrating an on-site clinic, adaptable care units, and diverse communal facilities. Public cafe, fitness areas, and parks further encourage multigenerational interaction and vibrant neighborhood life.

Project Duration

Construction Start: June 2021
Completion: June 2024
Open: October 2024
Location: Fujisawa City, Kanagawa, Japan

Operation Flow

The low-rise shared building evokes a seaside estate, integrating landscaping and a curtain wall emphasizing horizontal lines, creating a sense of openness. Public cafe and a gym face the street, welcoming community interaction. Interior greenery brings the outdoors inside, generating signature scenes that combine comfort, aesthetics, and an outdoor feeling. Residents circulate through communal and private spaces, fostering social interaction, autonomy, and connection with the surroundings.

Image Credits

Image #1: Nacasa & Partners, 2024
Optional Image #1: Nacasa & Partners, 2024
Optional Image #2: Nacasa & Partners, 2024
Optional Image #3: Nacasa & Partners, 2024
Optional Image #4: Nacasa & Partners, 2024