SOCIAL WELFARE CENTER FOR MULTIGENERATIONAL INTEGRATION

Subik Kumar Shrestha

B.Arch Thesis (IOE, TU, Nepal| 2011)

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SOCIAL WELFARE CENTER FOR MULTIGENERATIONAL INTEGRATION

INTRODUCTION

This design oriented thesis aims at creating a Social Welfare Center that promotes social integration through the

design of an urban residential complex. The whole complex is identified as a social welfare center, constituting

designed living spaces for children and elderly, and managed by users belonging to the young age-group (figure

1.1). Aiding to these living spaces will be an urban plaza located toward the direction of the higher pedestrian

flow so that part of this complex is open for public visit as well. This private-public and child-elderly integration

hopes to create a sustainable and lively built environment, connection the place with users and other members of

the society.

In every society, people of similar or different ideology

meet and interact. The discrepancies among various

users occur because of socio-economic, geographic,

religious, or other aspects. For this thesis, however, the

major motivation is establishing a center for social

works. Social works conducted by various

governmental and non-governmental organizations, or

freelance organizations, mostly focus on rehabilitation

centers, old age homes, woman empowerment centers,

and such. Although most of these organizations are

private or protected in nature, this thesis aims to

provide design spaces in the form of plazas, which

invites users from surrounding neighborhood as well.

The design of such organizations can be strengthened

by addition of spaces for general public, attracting the public to visit and experience the life of the special user

groups residing in this complex. Thus, this thesis is an attempt to not only study and design a center for social

works, but also uplift the consciousness within the general public regarding the special age-groups of children and

elderly. In this regard, a common center that functions for social works and social integration has been termed as

Social Welfare Center.

Design of the spaces

As discussed previously, the major purpose of this thesis is to design a complex dedicated specifically for children

and elderly. It is well-understood that there can be many fields through which social works can be achieved.

Among the various ways of aiding the less-privileged, this complex houses the orphans and retired elderly

population. The design facilitates the integration of these users of different age groups through a central space.

This central open space within the complex is vital in the proper functioning of the entire complex because it is

this space where the users will be able to meet each other, share stories and experiences, and pave a path for a

better life.

The design has been achieved after realizing two co-related aspects governing the design process:

1. The complex as a center for social motivation and

2. The complex as a center for social integration.

Designing for social motivation

The residential complex and supporting buildings which forms most of the habitable built structure of the project

are dedicated to facilitating the living of children and elderly. Spaces for young/adult management committee are

also required within this complex so as to cater to the needs of the institution. This complex aims to: (1) house

residing and non-residing children; (2) employ active youths in management; and (3) provide suitable spaces for

the retired elderly. Residing children stay in the complex housing full-time whereas non-residing ones will benefit

Figure 1.1 Relationship between the two age

groups—children and elderly.



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from the facilities of the school designed within this complex. The active youth population will take part in

management of this community and aid in fostering a proper relationship between the two special age-groups. The

elderly population will be a part of the elderly housing in close relationship with the open spaces (discussed in the

next section) and other facilities like: bhajan1, gardening, and other social functions.

Designing for social integration

As discussed previously, the open spaces also form an important part of the complex and are provided to support

special functions, mostly in the form of common integration spaces that bind the residents among themselves and

visitors. The different varieties of such integrations spaces include seating, dabali2, dhungedharas3, and

amphitheaters. In addition to these open spaces, the complex also consists of performance centers that bring the

residents and visitors together in different ways. More specifically, the spaces designed for these purposes include

visual arts or performing arts through the design of galleries, museums, and multi-purpose halls. Other socially

important spaces within the complex include a library and a spiritual center, targeted for the development of the

children, to benefit the elderly, and interconnect the residents with the neighborhood or vice-versa.

This paper is divided into three sections. This is the first section, introducing the aims of the thesis and discussing

the basic philosophy and design intentions. The next section is an elaboration of the case studies conducted at

different orphanages, elderly homes, and public spaces within the Kathmandu Valley. Finally, the third section

presents an analysis of the site and conceptual design of the Social Welfare center located in Teku, Kathmandu,

Nepal.

CASE STUDIES

The second section of this paper introduces the major “research methodology” followed for the understanding of

the design aspects of residential facilities for children and elderly; which is through the case studies of relevant

complexes in Nepal. As a case study of children’s living environment, one each of children’s village, school, and

orphanage was studied. The case study sites are: (1) SOS children’s village; (2) SOS school; and (3) Shagri-La

orphanage. In addition, to understand the elderly’s living pattern and architectural space requirements, four old-

age homes were studied. The case study sites are: (1) Pashupati Briddha Ashram; (2) Senior citizen’s home at

Taukhel; (3) N.R.N old age home; and (4) Rotary Karukalyan Briddha Ashram. All of the buildings listed above

were visited by the author and the research procedure included detailed observation of the spaces, study and

remaking of architectural spaces, and informal interviews and discussions. The following paragraphs are detailed

explanations of the buildings studied.

1. SOS CHILDREN’S VILLAGE-BANEPA

SOS children’s village was established in 1997 and was designed by CBC private limited. The total complex

spreads in an area of around 2.75 Hectares, composed of a terraced lands slopping down from the west to the east

(figure 2.1). The site is located in a peaceful area with the view of Kathmandu University in the east and Chaukot

in the south.

1 A religious function which includes singing songs related to Hindu gods 2 A raised platform, generally found traditional Newari Architecture 3 A traditional water conduits system found in the Kathmandu’s towns



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Architectural spaces and characteristics

The SOS village is composed of a variety of

individual houses and other individual

buildings (figures 2.2 and 2.3). It consists of

a total of fourteen family houses, one each

of director’s house and principal’s house,

one aunt’s house, one guest houses. There

is also a village administration block and a

mother’s training center present within this

complex. The buildings possess a distinct

architectural character because they are

constructed of exposed bricks and two way

slopped roofs with brick tiles, thus

representing contemporary Nepalese

architectural aesthetics (figures 2.2 and

2.3). Each of the family houses are oriented

in east-west direction. A typical family

house consists of open living room upon entry

which also functions as a family space (figure

2.4). These houses are fifty feet long and twenty seven feet wide on average with six feet long corridor giving

access to other living spaces. A ten feet wide backyard is also provided for each unit. The complex also consists

of the administration building; the dimensions of each room being:

1. Office- Ten feet by nine feet and four inches;

2. Account- Ten feet by ten feet;

3. Meeting room- Ten feet by twenty feet;

4. Director’s office- ten feet by fourteen feet and four inches; and

5. Store- Ten feet by five feet.

Figure 2.1 Site plan of SOS children’s village.

Figure 2.2 Rows of family houses Figure 2.2 A typical family house



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2. SOS SCHOOL

SOS school consists of more than 500 students

along with more than thirty staffs. The school

complex is planned in terraces according to the

topography. A central courtyard is present with

steps for interaction and as a seating during the

times of functions in the school (figure 2.6). This

multi-purpose seating looks upon the stage created

right next to the main entry, giving an amphitheater

like experience. One of the unique design qualities

of the school is this terraced multistoried interaction

court which not only gives access to the rooms on

upper stories of the school but also gives sitting area

to view the performances on the stage. As

illustrated by figure 2.9, the classrooms are

arranged on the edges of the courtyard thus

providing a sense of enclosure.

Figure 2.4 The corridor next to the living

room leading to other rooms.

Figure 2.3 Plan of a typical Family house (sc. Shrestha

(Thesis), 2009).

Figure 2.6 The multifunctional court.

Figure 2.8 Play area and park

Figure 2.7 Exterior view of the main

building



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Spaces

The major rooms in the school complex as

studied and observed are classrooms, library,

audio-visual room, staff room, indoor games

room, computer room, science labs, café

only for staffs, and administration rooms.

Analysis of the built spaces

Being a school, SOS aims to provide a sense

of community for its students and staffs. The

hierarchy of open and built spaces,

topography in the form of slopped lands, and

huge open spaces in the surrounding have

aided in providing a setting for the children

to study and live. The positioning of school

at a small distance from the children’s

village has provided a place for the children

to grow in an independent environment

away from their homes. Similar to the

architecture of the village as discussed previously, the architectural characteristics are reflected through the

exposed brick façade, tiled roofs with struts, windows of varying sizes, the single story blocks, corridor planning

of rooms, and courtyard planning concept (figures 2.7, 2.8, and 2.9).

Inferences

1. Design with respect to site is important as it is evident in the design of school courtyard and the

placement of family houses;

2. The need of home-like environment has been well understood by the designer and realized properly in the

design;

3. It is important to maintain living and learning units for children in close proximity so as to amplify the

sense of neighborhood; and

4. Nepalese character can be manifested through sensible use of materials and well-though planning

concept; its importance has been felt in the design of such national institution.

Figure 2.9 Plan of the school



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3. SHANGRI-LA ORPHANAGE, CHAPAGAUN

Shagri-la orphanage located in Chapagaun, Lalitpur was studied to understand the importance of integrated

activities and planning of vocational training to the resident orphans. Since the house provides assistance to boys

and girls of growing adult age, the parameters required to design units for girls and boys were also understood

after the site visit.

Shagri-la orphanage covers an area of 0.85 hectares and is run by the funds from an International NGO and

Shangri-La NGO. There are currently forty three children (twenty two boys and twenty one girls) in the

orphanage. According to the information provided by one of the staffs, children residing in this house are mostly

from remote areas of Nepal.

Architectural characters and building environment

One of the major ideas of space division is inspired by the fact that the boys’ and girls’ units need to be positioned

separately because of issues of privacy. An interlocking corridor however, is present between the two units. Each

room is seven meters long and five meters wide where six pupils live in total (figures 2.12 and 2.14). A common

Figure 2.10 Boys and girls unit

Figure 2.11 Planning of the Shangri-la orphanage.



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hall and kitchen-dining are also present. The square hall is around seven and half feet in length while the kitchen

is six and half feet long and four and half feet wide. Medical rooms and meditation rooms are also present

The building environment as observed was comfortable for the living, studying, and growing of the inhabitants.

The rooms are so designed to allow sunlight in every room. Art works by the resident children are displayed on

the walls.

Figure 2.12 First floor plan.

Figure 2.13 Exterior of the boy's unit Figure 2.14 Bed room



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Integrated activities

One of the interesting social aspects of the orphanage is that the

children are highly motivated to participate in various activities apart

from school and education. Provisions are made to promote the

sustainable living and community developments and the children

become an integral part of these practices. The major sustainable

practices as observed in the orphanage complex are: (1) agriculture; (2)

animal husbandry; (3) bio-gas plant; (4) implementation of solar

collector; (5) use of solar cooker; and (6) provision of vocational

training.

The eastern portion of the site has been used for farming. According to

the working staff, forty percent of total consumption of vegetable daily

is being supplied from the farming alone. Furthermore, the students

themselves are involved in agriculture. In addition, a nursery is also

present; it follows a simply constructed structure consisting of plastic

sheets supported by wooden posts (figure 2.16). Agriculture has been

supported by animal husbandry; there are two cows and one goat

present in the orphanage. Morning milk supplied through these

animals. In addition, a rabbit house is also present.

The complex has also considered the use of renewable energy as a part of their living style. There is a present of a

bio gas plant being run by the five toilets used by the residents. The gas produced by this plant is used by the

kitchen. Solar collectors and solar cookers are present which aids further in the cooking process (figure 2.17).

Shagri-la orphanage also provides vocational training to its resident. This facility is located towards the north. The

training is mostly focused on agriculture integrating the residents and aiding in the development of a feeling of

family by inspiring participation of each and every member.

4. PASHUPATI BRIDDHA ASHRAM

Pashupati Briddha Ashram was studied to understand the impact of courtyard planning in old age homes design.

Being located in proximity to the Pashupati area, the study further aimed to understand the impact of religious

environment in life style of the residents. Another important reason for the study was to attain knowledge on the

effect of adjacent social spaces in elderly home design.

Figure 2.16 Nursery.

Figure 2.15 Integrated activities

implemented by Shangri-la

orphanage.

Figure 2.17 Solar cooker.



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Pashupati Briddha Ashram is a government organization established in 1975 AD and formerly known as Paancha

Dewal Paakshala. The total number of elderly residents living in the complex is more than 230. The complex

covers and area of around 67,000 sq ft (according to calculation via Google Earth reference).

General planning of the Briddha Ashram (Elerly Home)

Figure 2.18 Exterior front view of Pashupati Briddha Ashram.

Figure 2.19 Master plan of Pashupati Briddha Ashram.



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The entry to building is from north (figure 2.19). The complex is located on a lower land with respect to Pashupati

Temple zone’s pedestrian route (figure 2.20). It is based on a traditional courtyard planning concept. Built on the

double storied sattals, the upper floor is main dormitory area with male and female accommodations. The ground

floor is used for variety of purposes. The southern wing on the ground floor has kitchen, dining, and toilet

facilities (figures 2.21 and 2.22). The eastern wing on the ground floor consists medical facilities with fifty beds

for constant care. The building was observed to be much crowded in terms of residential space use with less

ventilation and light. The western wing of the ground floor has dormitories as well. The northern part consists of

entrance, admin, Bhajan area, and medical room.

There are two pockets of open spaces observed in the building complex (figures 2.23 and 2.24):

1. The first pocket is situated in front of the south western residence and is used for interaction while eating

mid-day meals or during the evening; and

2. The second pocket is located centrally on south with Tulasi plant in front (presently unmanaged waste

disposal area). This area is relatively more peaceful unlike pocket 1.

Social characteristics

The location of the complex on proximity to Pashupatinath temple generates people flows around most of the

time. The visitors and residents of the elderly home are among those who flow to and from different areas of

Pashupatinath. Both interior and exterior pati upon entry are mostly occupied by the residents and passersby due

its proximity with areas of high user flows. Most of the elderly population in the interior pati were busy in passive

engagement, observing the activities taking place in the central courtyard. Also, since the road level is above the

complex, the exterior pati gives a view of the road level where there is movement all day long. Thus the pati was

occupied by the residents most of the times.

Figure 2.22 Dining area. Figure 2.21 Southern residing units.

Figure 2.20 Section of the complex at A-A; refer figure 2.19.



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Bhajan area

Portion of the interior dalan area is used for the purpose of bhajan (figure 2.26). This regular social function as a

way to offer religious inclination is an important part of Nepalese culture and is well incorporated in this building

complex. Being located adjacent to the entryway, every visitor and passerby to the complex can notice the

activities taking place here. This space has functioned well to maintain the social ambience to the residents.

Figure 2.24 General Analysis of the complex. Figure 2.23 Relation between built and open

spaces in the complex.

Figure 2.25 Pati from the exterior. Figure 2.26 Internal Bajhan area.



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Paancha Dewal and the internal courtyard

The Briddha Ashram is built in traditional Newari courtyard style.

The center of the courtyard consists of Paancha Dewal temple

raised on high plinths. This temple area occupies a huge portion of

the courtyard but is not visited by the residents since they find it

hard to climb the steps. So, they enjoy the public spaces at the

ground level of the courtyard. The ground level circumambulatory

of the paancha dewal complex has been used as an important

exterior space and many activities like conversing, sitting, strolling,

observing, washing clothes, and cleaning dishes. Though the

courtyard is narrow because of the presence of the temple inside, it

serves as a wonderful public space for the elderly residents close to

their home. The ground level of the courtyard further contains two

shiva lingas and one Tulasi tree at the corner. The floor is bricked

paved givinf a typical traditional look.

Spaces present in the Briddha Ashram

The following are the spaces present inside the building complex

facilitating the residents:

1. Residential units for male and female elderly;

2. Separated kitchen and dining space;

3. Varitiies of open spaces at front and back;

4. Bhajan area;

5. Sewing area;

6. Office; and

7. Rooms for medical facilities.

In addition to the rooms, there are varieties of transition spaces being provided at the complex portraying special

architectural design features. The northern front pati is a space having link with both the inside and the outside

space. At the back, the dining created with metal roof and other temporary structures behave similarly as well. It

has linkage with the back open space with fewer gaps and the internal sattal area is also situated in close

proximity. Thus one of the main ideas of the designed spaces can be understood as an attempt to link the external

public and internal private spaces through variety of transition spaces.

Built up areas and interior planning

The two-storied sattals surrounding the courtyard form the

main built-up spaces of the complex and are used for residing.

But the provision of spaces for the residents were observed to

be very limited, thus creating unhealthy living conditions

(figure 2.28). The interior planning is arranged in a big room

as group housing with two rows of eight to ten beds oriented to

the northeast. The section of the sattal is comprised of double-

bay portions with a width of approximately twenty feet.

Inferences

1. Transition spaces are essential in elderly homes design.

Few spaces incorporated in the design of this particular case

are bhajan areas, dining spaces, and sitting spaces;

2. Participatory activity areas are essential like a potential

garden area observed in the pocket spaces; and

Figure 2.27 Tulasi plant on the edge of

the courtyard.

Figure 2.28 Interior of male residential units.



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3. Compact planning scheme for residential space design can give a sense of neighborliness if designed

properly.

5. SENIOR CITIZENS HOME AT TAUKHEL

This senior citizens home is designed for the

economically capable residents. Established in the

year 2000 AD, this home is undertaken by Rotary

club.

This particular complex lies under phase one of a

master plan which is supposed to occupy more than

two hectares of land in total. However, the area

occupied by the building complex at present is

around 0.75 hectare. The objective of this senior

citizen home is to provide self-sustaining facilities to

the elderly. The facilities include lodging, boarding,

recreation, and provision of religious activities and

gatherings.

Site and surrounding landscapes

It is located in the peaceful foothills of densely

forested Godavari hills. The site is contoured to south

from north and provides an appropriate setting for an old age home. Well-maintained landscape design is an asset

of the complex. There is greenery and brick paved roads upon entrance. Steps divide lawns in two contoured

intervals. Solar battery operated lamp posts at different places in the lawns were observed. The split level of lawns

along with the brick paved path has given a setting for a walking route within close proximity to home. Due to

this reason, the residents can have a sociable time mostly during the morning and the evening.

Planning and design

At present, only the residential units and kitchen/dining

block are being built. Provisions are also made for

separate staff quarters and a guard house and a small

medical store. Creative placement of the blocks creates

different levels of sunny outdoor activity areas. The dining

has a pleasant outdoor sitting space. Corridor type

planning system has been adopted on the interior through

the design of a long corridor dividing and making path for

different rooms.

Like other buildings studied, the architectural style of this

complex is manifested through the use of brick exposed

façade and slopped roof with jhingati tiles (figure 2.30).

The building has maintained modern design standards yet

present traditional aesthetics.

Unit’s description

There are two important blocks in the complex: (1) residential block and (2) dining/kitchen block. The residential

block is two storied and offers peaceful exterior views from the rooms. It covers an area of around 250 square

meters (approximately twenty-five meters long and ten meters wide). The rooms are provided with huge windows

capturing enough sunlight and air. The dining and kitchen block is seventeen meters wide and six and half meters

wide serving twenty four residents at a time.

Figure 2.30 Dining area.

Figure 2.29 Exterior view of Senior Citizen's Home at

Taukhel.



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Inferences

1. Although sites split in various levels break monotony and creates excitement, special attention must be

given when designing old age homes in such sites;

2. Vertical circulation is an important factor to consider;

3. Areas for performing religious functions are essential;

4. Design of simple interiors is important; and

5. Provision of nature walk is a beneficial design option for the resident elderly and needs a proper

combination of pathways and designed landscape.

6. N.R.N. OLD AGE HOME

N.R.N. old age home was established in

the year 2008 with the financial

assistance from the non-residing

Nepalese. This complex is located in

Chitwan district of Nepal designed in a

built up area of 14.500 square feet. The

building is comprised of twenty three

rooms with a total of fifty eight beds

supported by provisions of a separate

kitchen and a large dining hall.

Figure 2.33 Front view of N.R.N. Old Age Home.

Figure 2.32 Landscape in varied level. Also

nature walk. Figure 2.31 Space outside of common room.



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Figure 2.34 Plan of the complex.



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Designed spaces and other facilities

The N.R.N. old age homes is composed of the following spaces:

1. Residential units- 10,500 square feet;

2. Central building for meditation and bhajan-1400 square feet;

3. Vegetable garden on the center around the bhajan building; and

4. Kitchen/ dining block- 2100 square feet.

The residing buildings are located on the periphery of the circular design with internal octagonal pathway located

for access to each of the rooms (figure 2.34). The internal path also gives access to the central courtyard-type

space. The buildings form a single unit and are single story with occasional nooks for the purpose of fire escape.

The design of this complex is a product of a good management of spaces in a comparatively small area.

The oval shape of the main block creates an interesting dynamics in plan. The central courtyard contains a bhajan

area which is around 1400 square feet in area and is surrounded by gardens that occupy the rest of the courtyard

(figure 2.36). In this regard, the bhajan room appears to be a part of the nature: the vegetable garden. The building

is ventilated at the bottom supposedly for proper ventilation of air during the time of meditation.

Special characters

1. Escape doors present at frequent intervals within the oval building;

2. Interesting steel columns used for support;

3. Use of circle and octagon in the plan;

4. A nature walk is present which functions as main access pathway;

5. Centrally placed bhajan room represents an “energy center” within the complex;

6. Traditional chulo system used for cooking using local woods from nearby trees; and

7. Increased height of the dining hall provides a balance in form.

Figure 2.36 The central bhajan hall.

Figure 2.35 Escape doors at

regular interval.



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7. ROTARY KARU KALYAN BRIDHA ASHRAM

Rotary Karu Kalyan Briddha Ashram is located in Tanahu district of Nepal across the long bridge connecting

Chitwan and Tanahu. It covers an area of around one Bigha (6772 square meters). The building complex at

present accommodates thirty elderly and consists of four residing staff members. The major planning idea is to

create independent blocks separated by gardens and interlink them with Devghat forest.

Design components and features

The following spaces comprise the building complex:

1. Two units for female (ten elderly residents on each unit);

2. One unit for male (ten elderly in total);

3. Meditation space and quarter;

4. Office and dining space;

5. Kitchen; and

6. Clinic facilities.

Figure 2.39 Units for females.

Figure 2.38 The traditional chulo

(cooking unit).

Figure 2.37 Residential units with pathway and the

vegetable garden.

Figure 2.40 A forest in the site.



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One of the major features of this center is the accessibility and

the division of gardens forming chains of sociable spaces and

residential units (figure 2.39). There are two types of gardens

present, which are dedicated for aesthetic purposes and

growing vegetables. These gardens fulfil the purpose of

providing social spaces to the residents and also as an activity

space to keep them busy. The blocks are scattered on the site

but are interestingly interlinked with walkable paths reaching

every block. The pathways are a combination of brick paving

or pebble laying. Kitchen and dining units are located on

separate but interconnected blocks. Dining accommodates the

residents and outside visitors as well, so is large in size. The

site is in split level such that the dining on second floor is

accessible from upper level of the site.

Having discussed the various sites visited for the study, the

next section describes the site and the design of the complex, which has been influenced heavily from these case

studies. It begins with site analysis, then explains the implications for design from various studies conducted, and

finally ends with the presentation of the program and conceptual explanation of the design.

Figure 2.41 Unit for males.



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SITE ANALYSIS AND THE DESIGN PROCESS

The third and final section begins with the site

analysis for the design of the complex. The site is

located in Teku, Kathmandu, to the southwest of

Teku river confluence. The site is currently a

‘dumping site’ and certainly not being used to its

potential of being a meaningful place for the

community. It extends to an area of around 1.8

hectares (18,500 square meters).

Introduction

The site is flat in topography with very few contours

and is located on a higher ground with respect to the

Bishnumati River to the south. The site (east

oriented) however, is at a lower level than the seven

meters wide road extending north-south on the east of

the site. This road also links the site with east-west

main road connecting Teku and Tripureshwore which

is at a distance of about half kilometer. Squatter

settlements currently occupy the spaces further east of this adjacent road. Furthermore, municipality buildings can

be observed around the site (figure 3.3). The neighborhood of Kuleshwore is located on the south and Teku on the

eastern vicinity of the site. The northern and western area consists of residential developments. The site is also

accessible via a newly built sixty-two meters long bridge on the southern side. Views from the site includes the

river and mixed use development to the south, peaceful residential settlement to the west and rich cultural and

religious pattern and riverfront developments on the east. So, the site gives a setting for community level

development and promises public participation.

Accessibility

Although the site is located farther from the main vehicular road, it has high vehicular and pedestrian access.

Squatter settlements

A developing squatter settlement can be observed on the eastern part of the site. Being an illegally encroached

area and due to the reasons of poor living conditions, these developments have rendered the site inconvenient

even for casual visit or walking. The proper positioning of these squatter camps will certainly increase the vitality

of the place since it is clear that the site possesses better potential in terms of a permeable and sociable

community. Among many attempts to accommodating these squatters, a proposal of Teku-Thapathali research

group (Sanday, 1995) suggesting alternative low cost housing to the squatters is commendable.

Figure 3.3 A youth club near site. Figure 3.2 A municipality building near site.

Figure 3.1 Main central view of the site (present

condition).



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Bishnumati river and site ecology

River Bishnumati that runs east-west to the south of the site

provides an ecological resource to the site and to the proposed

building complex. The current condition of the river is severe

pollution as a result of unmanaged settlement growth and

decades of negligence. But there are possibilities for using the

river as a social, ecological, and architectural resource if

managed properly. The water from the Bishnumati River can

be used on site for various purposes (after proper treatment) like

watering plants and for use in the toilets. It should be noted that

treatment should not be performed by mechanical means but by

natural means of aeration, gravity flow, or constructing

wetlands. In addition, it should also be noted that the river

cannot be misused for any other purpose and the water cycle

must be maintained in order to protect the river-flow. Since the

complex also contains a public plaza within its areas, this might

be an opportunity to create awareness regarding the river condition at least among the plaza visitors.

Contextual analysis

Before initiating the design work, the contextual analysis of the site is essential so as to learn from the site and

apply related ideas in the design. As discussed in the previous sections, the site has the potential to act as a

primary supporting factor for the design process. As discussed previously, the site is easily accessible from the

surrounding neighborhoods from all directions. The approach from Teku and Tripureshwore (north and east),

Kuleshwore (west), and Sanepa (south) adjacent to the Bishnumati River provides a significant setting for

locating a community neighborhood that this design thesis attempts. These characteristics assure a good

pedestrian flow along the site and attract users in the plaza spaces.

Teku confluence, which is in close proximity to the river is a strong and significant notification that the site is

spiritually blessed and has inspired the development of human settlements around. It needs to be used for a better

functional purpose and definitely not for dumping city waste. Since there is a potential of community level

participation and development, including a social plaza within the complex can increase the social value of the

complex.

Figure 3.4 Squatter settlement located in the

east.

Figure 3.5 Conceptual analysis of the site.



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Design implications from the case study and site analysis

The following list of implications from the case studies and site analysis have been important for the design:

1. The character of Bhajan areas and patis has been inspired from the structures observed in Pashupati

Briddha Ashram. Similarly, the study has also provided an idea about the potential of site on a lower level

with respect to the road, especially for the visitors of the plaza;

2. Landscapes designed for nature walks as observed in the Senior Citizen’s Home at Taukhel have been

adopted in the design;

3. Seating at the bank of the river in Devghat has used as prototypes for riverfront seating in the design;

4. The entryways of surrounding complexes with patis (sheltered social space) and chautaros (social space

around a tree) as urban social spaces, structures of ghat (crematorium) and the riverfront, and other open

spaces around the site have been a major part of inspiration;

Figure 3.6 Contextual analysis of the site (with design).

Figure 3.7a Figure 3.7b



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5. The “view-deck” currently present at the

middle of the site has the potential of acting as a view-garden so that the whole complex could be viewed

from the space. An “integrated view deck” facilitating the flow of the residents can be proposed in the

design;

6. The twenty five meters setback from the river as a part of the bye-laws has been utilized for constructed

wetlands. The ghat (crematory) inspired seating is also placed here since sitting near the Bagmati River

has been an important social activity; and

7. Architecturally, the higher projected overhangs with view decks, formal seating, the forest, buildings

overlooking the river are considered so as to respond to the river.

Figure 3.7c

Figure 3.7d

Figure 3.7e Figure 3.7f

Figure 3.7g Figure 3.7h



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Design initiation

As discussed in the introduction section, the design is focused on two important themes: (1) design for social

motivation and (2) design for social integration. The design for social motivation is largely composed of the

constituent buildings devoted to the facilitation of resident children and elderly whereas the design for social

integration represent public spaces and interaction zones where socialization is expected to occur. The blocks

discussed in this section represents only the primary functional areas taken under consideration to initiate the

project and not necessarily “design forms” or “design blocks” (figures 3.8 and 3.9).

Designing for social motivation

The design elements include children’s block, elderly’s block, and the control body.

Block 1—Children’s block

1. Schools and interactive learning centers;

2. Health clinics;

3. Residential units for forty inhabitants; and

4. Play areas

Figure 3.8 Initial ideas.



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Block 2—Block for the elderly

1. Residential units for thirty

inhabitants;

2. Spaces for socialization; and

3. Health clinics

Block 3- Control body

1. Adult discussion centers; and

2. Conferences and meeting

Designing for social integration

The design of social integration spaces

include welcoming plaza,

amphitheaters/dabalis, cafes and gardens,

spiritual center and library, and

performance spaces.

Block A- Welcoming plaza

Block B- Amphitheaters/dabalis

Block C- Cafes, gardens and landscapes

Block D- Spiritual centers and library

Block E-Performance zone

1. Hall for performing arts;

2. Visual arts through gallery; and

3. Sports zone and exercise area

Design concept

This section explores the design ideas and core concepts of the design which have been utilized to manifest major

design philosophies and integrate the overall design process and presentation. The project orbits around

integrating people of different age groups by understanding the unique lifestyles and realizing their social needs

that guide the design of spaces (figures 3.10 a and b).

Since the site represents the confluence of rivers and societies and the project aims at a confluence of three

generations, the major theme adopted for the complex design is “confluence”. As discussed previously, five

Figure 3.9 Relation of elements.

Figure 3.10a Figure 3.10b

Figure 3.9 Concept of blocks.



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important design spaces have been identified which

are: (1) center for elderly; (2) center for children; (3)

center for performance; (4) center for control; and (5)

plaza (figure 3.10c). The idea of confluence is

clarified via centrally located active zone,

morphologically integrating the five spaces; thus

acquiring a pentagonal form. This centrally active

open space connecting the different buildings of the

complex is termed as “the Multi-Generational

Integration” zone or MGI.

The plaza plays an important role in the development

of additional conceptual frameworks. In traditional

urban morphology, the plaza and related open spaces

connect the neighborhood towns as an uninterrupted access. Similar thoughts are implemented in design through

placement of chautaros as strong symbolic and functional public spaces. Each of the vertices of the pentagon is

represented by a chautaro (a social space) and is connected with the central open spaces of the plaza and the MGI

(figure 3.10d). The chautaros further guide the morphology of the complex (in the same way as courtyards guide

traditional Nepalese towns) aiding to the formation of courts on respective sides. Each of this courts represent the

building blocks containing different functions in them (figure 3.10e).

Each of the five block is different in shape and size. Varied shapes are being given to each of the blocks. Triangle

representing the youths/adults is related with administration, symbolizing the third vertex to complete the triangle

of child, adults, and the old. Similarly, pentagonal social spaces represent the five building spaces as discussed

previously. The stable hexagonal shapes represent psychological stability of the elderly whereas the dynamic and

flexible circular shapes represent the children. Finally, octagonal plan form has been the prime space generator for

the common activity block.

Figure 3.10c

Figure 3.10d

Figure 3.10e



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Core concepts for other spaces

In addition to the integrated characteristics of the overall

complex and the individual building forms, other elements

are also designed following a creative approach. Specific

elements that area designed with self-conscious ideas for

place-making include plaza, dhungedhara, chautaros, and

few transitional spaces. Like in the traditional concept, the

plaza has been treated as the prime space for human flow

and open space use (figures 3.11 and 3.12a and b). The

plaza acts as a center and is designed to fundamentally

function as ‘the center of all visits’. The large space further

consists of nodal points in which eatery, seating, public art

and fountains as important activity generating elements

have been located.

In addition to the plaza, a dhungedhara and supporting

temple has also been designed to symbolize tirtha or pilgrimage (figure 3.13). As explained in previous sections,

the river-confluence and river banks have been an important site-specific characteristics utilized for a contextual

design thesis. In this regard, it is well understood that such river confluences have been functioning as centers of

pilgrimage in Nepal since ancient times. In this particular case, pollution and urbanization has caused the river

confluence to suffer, so to pay a tribute to this traditional practice, a dhungedhara is designed for symbolic

representation. The traditional water source is dedicated to the residing and visiting elderly to act as pilgrimage.

Its design logic is adopted from the concept of Bishwanath temple and Mani Hiti from Patan Durbar Square.

Historically, Mani Hiti (constructed during the reign of

king Man Dev) was taken as a reference point for the

site selection of Bishwanath temple (built on later

Malla period). Similar to this historical occurrence, the

idea in this design is for the dhungedhara to act as a

tirtha (in the midst of city), supporting the temple

which functions as the major religious center of the

complex.

Figure 3.11 Concept of the plaza.

Figure 3.12a Predicted environment of the plaza.

Figure 3.13 Mani hiti of Patan as an inspiration for

the design.

Figure 3.12b Rendered image of the plaza.



27

As discussed previously, the chautaros provide a

social space to the residents and visitors and are

also geometrically related to the adjacent blocks.

In this design, chautaros play a key role of acting

as a transition spaces since they are very close to

the respective building and open spaces. In

addition, these chautaros help to define a

pedestrian path (and consequently large portion

of the master plan design) linking each corner of

the complex with each other and also creating a

‘nature walk’ (figure 3.14a). Furthermore, each

of these five chautaros will be visible from one

another and the users at one corner can observe

the activities happening at the other end (visual

permeability). This design approach can be

considered as an attempt to add to the social

characteristics of the complex that motivates the

people to use the open spaces as an important

part of their daily lives. As an integral part of the

social spaces, the transition spaces have arisen as

a function of the chautaros (figure 3.15). These

spaces which are neither inside nor outside,

support major social activities related to the

elderly, passive engagement (staying in the

public spaces and observing the world go by).

Being of transition by quality, these spaces are

sheltered and thus the patrons can enjoy the

shades offered by these place.

These small social points have been integrated by

the largest and most central open space of the

complex, which is the Multi-Generational

Integration zone (MGI). The main idea of this

open space is to integrate child and the old through the various sub-spaces. It symbolizes the day to day activities

Figure 3.15 Transisiton spaces used in the design.

Figure 3.14b Rendering of the chautaro and its

effect in the surrounding.

Figure 3.14a Role of the chautaro.



28

of the residents as well (table 3.1). The space has

played an important role in involving the child and

the old to a common point of interest and making

each other’s living more comfortable. This large

open space consists of small pockets for board-

gaming, birds-feeding, story-telling, and other

associated activities. These activities are planned to

facilitate the activities of the users from morning to

the evening. Due to its proximity with the plaza and

common activity block, it will be easily accessible

to the visitors as well. Being a prime central space,

the location supports passive engagement from

private areas as well as the transition spaces.

The table presented below is mostly based on the

findings from the case studies, literature research,

and the author’s own experience and understanding.

Through these spaces, the overall activities of typical Nepalese elderly people and children have been facilitated

through architectural design. The two age groups considered in this regard can benefit from the spaces such that

their typical day passes by being involved in one activity or the other.

Table 3.1 Social functions performed each time of the day.

Activities in the morning Activities during daytime Activities during the evening

Bhajan Grocery, and retail shopping

Visit to the temples

Meditation Using the plaza space Use of the gaming pockets and storytelling

Visit to the temples Schooling and play (*) Grocery, and retail shopping

Exercise and nature-walk,

Gardening.

Vocational training Using the library

Grocery, and retail shoppin Bird feeding

Using the library Using the plaza space

Bathing at the dhungedhara Gardening

Bird feeding

Using the plaza space

NB: (*) Activities specific only to children.

ZONING

The design of the complex was supported by a simple idea of zoning. It needs to be noted that unlike the zoning

of urban areas, the zoning in this complex is not conducted to separate out the functions. In this regard, the first

Figure 3.16 The central Multi Genrational Integration

Zone (MGI).



29

concern was to identify and distribute social, private and transition spaces. Following the core concept(s), it is

easy to separate out the public and private spaces. The eastern and the northwestern portions are assigned as being

completely private whereas the remaining spaces are either semi-public or public. The zoning diagram illustrates

how public and private spaces are in conjunction with each other within the complex (figure 3.17). With the

amount of public participation being expected, it is always important to keep in mind that private spaces need to

be designed thoughtfully.

The design has more public spaces due to its nature of welcoming more people from outside and also because it

supports community level development based on active social spaces. Other specific zoning functions are related

with river watching and relaxing, exercising, and passive engagement during morning and the evening. The

introduction of transition spaces at various locations have influenced the parameters of zoning as well. For

example, the area below the view deck and near the courts have played an important role in maintaining transition

spaces from where outside activities can be enjoyed while remaining inside the shade. The semi-private spaces on

the common activity block indicate the public facilities requiring membership for use.

Figure 3.18 Zoning of the complex.



30

Architectural designs

Figure 3.21 Curve roofs and the chidren’s block

going with the curved building form

Figure 3.19 Master Plan of the complex.

Figure 3.20 The plaza overlooking the

administration.



31

Figure 3.23 Slopped roofing in the Elderly

block.

Figure 3.24 Use of horizontal and vertical shades in the

south facing common activity block.

Figure 3.22 The nature and role of court-

Elderly block.



32

CONCLUSION

This research based design project attempts to integrate children and elderly through thoughtful design of spaces

that promote sociability and well-being. Another important social characteristics of the project is that it attempts

to inspire the public (as a part of the society) to participate and motivate the community for development. Being a

social welfare center, it facilitates the homeless children and elderly who wish to live their remaining life in

sociable tranquility. The interior and exterior spaces and their relationship have demonstrated that the child and

the old can live together and mutually benefit each other for better quality of life.

Figure 3.25 Aerial view of the site from northwest.

Figure 3.26 Aerial view of the site from southeast.



33

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bachelor of Architecture. Theses. Ball State University, Indiana.

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Pins, T.P. Environment for Aging to Live.

Bachelor of Architecture. Theses. Tribhuvan University: Department of Architecture and Urban Planning,

Institute of Engineering.

____ Joshi, S. (2007) Senior Citizen’s Home.

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____ Shrestha, R. (n.d.) Social Welfare Center.

____ Shrestha, S. (2009) Children’s Village.

____ Sthapit, S. (2005) Old Age Retreat.

____ Toshniwal, S. (2010) Civic Center.

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De Chiara, J., Panero, J, and Zelnik, M. (1995) Time Saver Standards for Building Types. McGraw Hill.

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Ernst and Neufert, P. (2000) Architect’s Data. UK: Blackwell.

Indiana University. (2006) Design Guidelines for a Lifespan Community

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