This research explores the evolving role of shopping malls in the lives of the growing elderly population in the Netherlands. Delving into the unique needs and desires of the elderly, the study emphasizes diversity, accessibility, community, and inclusivity within shopping centres. The research methodology integrates a comprehensive literature review, a case study of elderly-cantered architectural designs, and structured interviews with elderly individuals. Contrary to the prevalent literature portraying the elderly as fragile and facing significant challenges, the interviews unveil a diverse reality of ageing, emphasizing individuality and varied impacts on daily life. The case study elucidates themes of mobility and social community as crucial elements in the design of age-inclusive spaces. By integrating these perspectives, the research concludes that a one-size-fits-all blueprint for shopping malls is inadequate. Instead, designers should focus on incorporating practical amenities, a diverse shopping environment, promoting community, and ensuring accessibility to cater to the broad spectrum of elderly needs and preferences. Furthermore, the study advocates for ongoing research to understand how the ageing population’s needs influence urban environments and various functions within these spaces. Ultimately, this research envisions an age-inclusive future, where cities and spaces are designed to meet the evolving requirements of an ageing population, promoting inclusive and enjoyable environments for all.

At the dawn of the twentieth century people in the Netherlands were living in poor conditions. The houses were poorly ventilated, with high humidity and little daylight. Along with the poor living conditions the first World War and Economic crisis marked the start of the century. It was that during this time in England a new housing concept arose. Ebenezer Howard came up with the concept of the garden cities. In garden cities the focus is on more peaceful living than in the cities and provides a lot of amenities. This concept was adapted in the Netherlands in several cities. But is this concept the answer to the problems of the interbellum period? The question posed in this history thesis is: ‘Are garden villages an answer to the social and economic problems of the beginning of the 20th century and, if so, how is that reflected in the design?’

In order to research this the thesis looks at three cases in the Netherlands, Vreewijk en Heijplaat in Rotterdam and Marlot in the Hague. Here we see that providing better living conditions, more amenities and teaching people how to live properly, invluences society in a positive way. Because of this it can be concluded that garden villages provide some answers to the problems of the interbellum