Forest Nest: Care Center for Elderly in Poverty

Senior Thesis—2023
Programs Used: Revit, Enscape, Photoshop

01 Concept

*CLICK IMAGES TO ENLARGE

Community, Healing, Warm & Comfort

Nestled in the Seongsu-dong district, behind Seoul Forest, the nation’s largest eco-friendly city park, this care center is inspired by nature to offer a healing environment for the elderly and an escape from urban poverty. With South Korea having the highest rate of elderly poverty among developed nations, it is essential to provide proper care and support to these seniors in need. The center offers opportunities that are often difficult to find elsewhere, striving to create a warm, comfortable space, foster a strong healthy community, and improve the quality of life for its residents.

02 Site—Seongsu-dong, Seoul Forest

Site Map

The demands of city living—cramped homes, stressful commutes, and constant noise—leave urban dwellers yearning for well-being, tranquility, and a sense of community.

Site Plan

Existing Conditions

1    WALL DIVIDING SEOUL FOREST AND THE CARE CENTER 
2    SEOULSUP 2-GIL AND ENTRANCE OF THE ‘MINI MARKET’
3    PATH CONNECTED TO THE SEOUL FOREST TRAIL

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A Warm Welcome: Creating a Sense of Home

03 Level One Plans

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2

3

Floor Plan

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5

6

1    OFFICE BUILDING
2    EXTERIOR LOUNGE
3    COMMUNITY CENTER
4    MINI MARKET
5    CAFETERIA 
6    EXTERIOR PAVILION
7    RECEPTION, INTAKE & SUITES

7

Exterior Walking Pathways

RCP

Community Center

Promote social interaction through shared spaces, ensuring a seamless transition back to community life.

04 Level Two Plans

1

Floor Plan

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3

1    OFFICE BUILDING
2    BRIDGE CONNECTING MINI MARKET TO CAFE
3    BALCONY DINING
4    SUITE ROOMS & LOUNGE

4

Exterior Balcony Dining & Connecting Bridges

RCP

Cafe Dining

An open neighborhood cafe intended to promote an inclusive and welcoming space that supports elderly individuals facing poverty.

05 Sections

Section A

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1

2

Section B

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3

Section C
Section A

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1    MINI MARKET
2    BRIDGE
3    PATH TO SUITE BUILDING
4    CAFE
5    CAFETERIA
6    EXTERIOR DINING
7    SEOUL FOREST

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3

2

4

Section B

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3

5

4

1    SEOUL FOREST
2    DIVING WALL AND PATH
3    SEMI-OPEN ART STUDIO
4   COMMUNITY CENTER STAGE
5    EXTERIOR LOUNGE

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Section C

7

5

1    SUITES
2    CAFE
3    CAFETERIA
4    BALCONY
5    PATH CONNECTED TO SEOUL FOREST 
6    COMMUNITY CENTER PORCH
7    EXTERIOR LOUNGE

Exterior Lounge

For workers and elderly to enjoy natural sunlight.

06 Level Three & Four Plans

Level Three Floor Plan
Level Four Floor Plan

Repetition of the lower level floors.

Level Three RCP
Level Four RCP

Repeated Element

Technical Item

Custom bench is a repeating element throughout the space, providing varied seating and privacy for small groups.

Awning windows provides clear views and fresh air while protecting from direct sunlight.

Exterior Pavilion

EXISTING MATERIAL: GREEN PAVEMENT HELPS DEFINE PATHWAYS

Direct access to nature and outdoor spaces adjacent to the suite.

Wayfinding/Signage

Suite Rooms Entry

Suite Room 101

ADA Suite 

TRADITIONAL MATERIAL ELEMENT: POJANGI (CURTAIN)

Two ADA-compliant suites per floor.

Suite Lounge

Cozy, warm space offering a restful break from their private room.

Axon