Centro recreacional en Guayaquil para promover la integración y el bienestar de los adultos mayores.

Abstract

This degree project proposes the design of a Recreational Center located in downtown Guayaquil, specifically on Panamá Street. This proposal arises in response to the need to create spaces dedicated exclusively to active aging. For this reason, criteria for inclusion, accessibility, and adaptability are considered for the development of the architectural proposal, with the primary intention of creating pleasant and safe environments capable of strengthening the interaction between older adults and their surroundings. The conceptual framework is based on the principles of active aging and functional ability proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO). These principles highlight how the environment directly influences the well-being of older people, showing the importance of caring for the space where they live. In this context, gerontological architecture lays the groundwork for spaces that respond to the physical, sensory, and cognitive needs of this stage of life. The design brings in biophilia to boost comfort and emotional well-being through a direct connection with nature. From there, it integrates memory architecture and intergenerational dynamics to foster a real sense of belonging and community. The project's methodology is developed in three stages: the first consists of diagnosis and analysis, which includes gathering and reviewing information; the second corresponds to the synthesis of the data obtained to identify contextual constraints and subsequently convert them into design criteria; third, the development of the architectural proposal. Finally, the project is founded on the urban analysis and that of Panamá Street. In this analysis, the need for recreational facilities for older adults in this sector was identified. To respond to this issue, the proposal relates directly to the public space and clearly organizes the areas and pathways.