Transitional architecture for intellectually disabled youth
From formal education towards autonomous living
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Abstract
Families of young people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (YAIDD) reported that poor safety, social skills training and the un-readiness of the parents delay YAIDD from becoming autonomous adults. This research is based on literature study, fieldwork, site visits and interviews; and it is aimed to improve Independence, Social participation and Wellbeing of the target group, to create a stimulating and welcoming environments specific to IDD. The study offers a recommended framework that could prepare YAIDD for autonomous living and the design for a Youth Development Hub facility in Laakkwartier (The Hague, Netherlands). The main functions that are present in the project are: short-stay residences, classrooms, community center and recreational areas. The following design concepts are addressed in detail through literature study and applied to the design at varying scales: Legibility and wayfinding, Prospect and refuge, Territoriality and control, Privacy and choice, Design for senses, Design for routine.