Symbio – Designing Shared Spaces for Intergenerational Well-being
Introduction
In today’s society, generations are more disconnected than ever. Seniors often face loneliness and a lack of meaningful engagement, while children thrive on social interaction but rarely connect with older adults outside their families. Research shows that intergenerational interaction can improve well-being, motivation, and even cognitive function in the elderly while offering children valuable social learning experiences. This project explores how thoughtful design can create a shared space where seniors and young children naturally interact, fostering joy, movement, and a sense of belonging across generations.
Project info
10 weeks, Spring 2024
Bachelor thesis project
Umeå Institute of Design
Focus
Product design
Research
Spring 2024
Workshops
The problem
Loneliness and social isolation are significant challenges for elderly individuals, According to the WHO, up to one-third of seniors experience isolation, increasing risks of depression and cognitive decline. The National Institute on Aging (2019) links social isolation to heart disease and Alzheimer’s. At the same time, young children benefit from diverse social experiences but have limited opportunities to engage with older generations outside their families. Existing environments are often age-segregated, lacking spaces designed to encourage natural and meaningful intergenerational interactions.
The Swedish TV4 experiment “Fyraåringarna på äldreboendet” (2020) showed that interaction with children improved seniors' memory, mobility, and mood. Despite these benefits, most public spaces remain age-segregated, limiting meaningful connections.
The approch
The project follows a user-centered research process, combining interviews, workshops, and observations to identify key needs. Insights from elderly care professionals, preschool staff, and movement experts shaped the final design, ensuring it is inclusive, functional, and engaging for all users.
The result
This project proposes a multi-functional outdoor space that integrates gardening, play, and interactive elements to bring seniors and children together. By designing an environment that is accessible, engaging, and inclusive, the space fosters spontaneous interaction through shared activities. Whether through planting, water play, or simply sitting together, the design encourages moments of joy, movement, and connection, improving quality of life for both generations.
Scenario
Final words
This project has shown me how deeply design can influence human connection. Through research, interviews, and testing, I’ve seen firsthand how small changes in the environment can create big shifts in well-being. Bridging generations isn’t just about bringing people together, it’s about designing spaces that make those interactions natural, meaningful, and lasting. I hope this work inspires more inclusive design solutions that foster community, joy, and a sense of belonging for all ages.
Close up on water play area and modell in scale 1:20