Good morning, juries, Ar. Salaya, Ar. De Guzman, Ar. Chavez, and to my advisor, Ar. Tablan.
I am Benjamin
Jacob, and here is my research, A Study of Eco-Therapeutic Design on Enhancing the Efficiency of the Living
Environments in Retirement Homes. My project is AGAPAY: A Proposed Eco-Therapeutic Retirement
Community.
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Let me start my presentation with a brief background of the study.
Growing older is inevitable, and as people age, their physiological, psychological, and safety requirements
become increasingly important for seniors who gradually lose their sense of independence.
Over 8 million Filipinos, or 8.2% of the population, are aged 60 and above, with 5 million aged 65 and
older. DSWD estimates that around 10% of the elderly are neglected or abandoned, highlighting the urgent
need for better elder care and support systems. Despite this need, the government operates only four
residential care facilities for neglected elderly individuals located in Quezon City, Rizal, Davao City, and
Zamboanga City, serving a very small percentage of the neglected elderly nationwide.
Retirement homes, also known as senior living communities or assisted living facilities, support older
individuals needing assistance with daily tasks. This project aims to incorporate eco-therapeutic design
principles into a proposed retirement community to enhance residents’ well-being.
Eco-therapeutic design is an emerging architectural approach that promotes healing and well-being by
incorporating natural components and sustainable practices into the built environment.
The efficient use of physical and therapeutic spaces within retirement homes is crucial for guaranteeing
the welfare and satisfaction of residents.
One of the approaches to eco-therapeutic design is the integration of Biophilic design. This is categorized
into Nature in the Space, Natural Analogues, and Nature of the Space.
* Nature in the Space strategically integrates plants and water features to reduce stress, enhance mood,
and boost productivity by connecting users with the natural environment.
* Natural Analogues utilize organic materials, colors, and patterns like wood and stone to create a
comforting, familiar atmosphere.
* The Nature of Space replicates natural surroundings through panoramic views, natural ventilation, and
lighting, fostering environments that stimulate and reassure, promoting mental and emotional well-being.
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Retirement facilities in the Philippines often fail to meet seniors’ physical, emotional, and mental needs
due to traditional, institutional-like designs. These settings can negatively impact residents’ quality of life,
causing isolation and depression. There is increasing interest in eco-therapeutic design, which
incorporates natural elements and sustainable practices to improve living conditions. However, applying
these principles in Philippine retirement homes remains underexplored and requires further study.
The specific problems this study seeks to address include:
a. Insufficient Engagement with Nature:
b. Institutional Atmosphere:
c. Cultural Disconnect:
GOAL
The study aims to design an eco-therapeutic retirement facility that will improve the elderly's physical,
psychological, and social well-being by understanding the facility’s architectural factors and the efficiency
of its physical and therapeutic spaces.
OBJECTIVES
• To identify the needs of the elderly users.
• To demonstrate how their needs may be satisfied by proper measures like the built environment.
• To establish a design that would accommodate the medical requirements of elderly users without
compromising the homely environment.
• To provide the elderly with activities to improve their social well-being.
• To examine and evaluate how the Philippines' existing elder care facilities have adapted to the
design requirements for the elderly.
RESEARCH QUESTIONS
1. To what extent does the physical and therapeutic environment of retirement homes affect the
health and well-being of elderly residents of a retirement home?
2. What are the architectural design conditions and strategies can be implemented to improve the
design of a retirement home?
3. How can the design of a retirement facility create a sense of community and connectivity for its
residents?
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The research methodology includes a comprehensive Literature and Case Study Review, a combination of
Qualitative and Quantitative interviews and surveys, an ocular visit and observations on the existing
retirement homes, and an analysis of the data gathered.
The research will use a mixed-method approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative data, to
evaluate the efficiency of the physical and therapeutic environments in a government-owned retirement
home in the Philippines.
For the research locale and population, the research will be conducted at the Haven for the Elderly in Brgy.
Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal. The primary participants will be elderly occupants aged 60 to 85, selected by the
retirement home's administrators.
RESULTS AND FINDINGS
The first chart shows that the residents value a well-rounded lifestyle, emphasizing physical activities like
socializing and mental stimulation through studying and relaxation. Residents also prioritize accessibility,
comfortable sitting, scenic views, gardens, acoustics, technology integration, and natural lighting and
ventilation in their living spaces. These components improve their physical comfort and add to their overall
well-being and contentment. The next chart shows that accessibility, thoughtful layout, comfortable
materials, personalized spaces, soothing colors, ample lighting, effective acoustic design, privacy
considerations, access to natural light, captivating views, and appropriately sized rooms contribute
significantly to residents’ sense of belonging.
Lastly, most features or services residents desire for a proposed retirement community. They highlight
recreational spaces like a game room, library, and sports area and practical amenities like a salon,
barbershop, laundry room, and convenience store. Furthermore, a workshop, café, classroom, and church
present a desire for spaces that promote creativity, learning, and spiritual well-being. Including medical
facilities demonstrates a focus on health and access to care, emphasizing the entire approach to
community design.
The result of the survey interview suggests that the majority of the elderly residents are satisfied with the
care and design of the facility. there are a few possibilities for improvement. Still, the facility could serve
as a solid foundation or a basis for a standard design for an elder care facility.
THE SITE
The chosen site in Pasong Bayog, Brgy. Burol Main, Dasmarinas Cavite, spans 2.4 hectares within an
institutional property owned by the City of Dasmarinas, which is a part of the property's 12.8 hectares
area. It benefits from a developed road infrastructure directly connected to the main highway,
Congressional Avenue. The land features include earth-filled areas with a flat topography, adorned by few
vegetation such as trees and tropical grasses, and is bordered by a riprap structure along the nearby Imus
River to prevent soil erosion.
This site was selected based on compliance with DSWD’s Standards and Indicators for Residential Care
Service, ensuring accessibility to community facilities, safety from hazards, ample land area with suitable
shape and soil characteristics, existing public utilities, and compatibility with surrounding land uses.
SITE ANALYSIS
The site analysis reveals that the retirement community benefits from favorable sun and wind patterns,
with the sun rising in the East, setting in the West, and prevailing winds from the northeast and southwest.
Situated approximately 70m above sea level, the site features a flat, earth-filled surface near the Imus
River, with reduced flood risk due to its elevation and the surrounding riprap structure.
The site is located within 2km of multiple healthcare institutions, including GMF Hospital, Pagamutan ng
Dasmarinas, and St. Paul Hospital Cavite, ensuring convenient access to medical services. Additionally,
residents have easy access to markets, malls, parks, places of worship, and sports centers.
SWOT ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS
The site offers proximity to essential services and community amenities such as markets, malls, parks,
places of worship, and recreation centers, enriching residents' quality of life.
It is conveniently located near healthcare institutions, ensuring easy access to medical assistance.
The well-developed road network connects the location to major highways, enhancing accessibility.
Additionally, the site boasts a tranquil environment characterized by peace and quiet, providing a serene
living atmosphere for residents.
WEAKNESSES
Existing structures on the site may restrict flexibility in site planning and development.
While the riprap structure effectively mitigates soil erosion, it also raises security concerns that must be
addressed during the planning and development phases.
OPPORTUNITIES
The site’s proximity to healthcare institutions enables partnerships for specialized healthcare services.
Collaboration with the adjacent New Dasmarinas City Hall can lead to senior-specific community
programs. Nearby educational institutions facilitate intergenerational activities. Access to markets, malls,
and parks supports cultural and recreational activities for residents.
THREATS
The retirement community faces potential risks from natural disasters like earthquakes or flooding.
Additionally, competition from other retirement homes in the area poses challenges in attracting
residents and managing resources effectively.
DESIGN CONCEPT
The architectural design concept is inspired by the Filipino term “Agapay.” The concept seeks to embody
the values of care, connectivity, and support within the architectural framework. Through careful spatial
planning and interconnected elements, the concept reflects the spirit of ‘Pag-agapay’ for elderly residents,
creating a space where they can feel physically supported and emotionally connected.
The proposed eco-therapeutic retirement community integrates modern biophilic design with the
traditional architectural principles of the Bahay Kubo. Drawing from Bahay Kubo’s emphasis on simplicity,
sustainability, and outdoor connectivity, the design fosters environmental stewardship and enhances
residents’ well-being. It maximizes natural light, ventilation, and green space access while minimizing
environmental impact. This approach promotes mental and physical health, blending sustainability with
cultural heritage to create a peaceful, supportive environment for retirees to live in harmony with nature.
DESIGN OBJECTIVES
• To create a harmonious living environment that enhances the physical, mental, and emotional
well-being of elderly residents through thoughtful integration of natural elements.
• To prioritize access to greenery, sunlight, and outdoor areas, fostering a deep connection with
nature.
• To blend traditional Filipino architectural elements, such as the Bahay Kubo, with modern
sustainable practices.
• To foster a sense of community while maintaining privacy and accessibility.
• To emphasize social interaction and a sense of belonging, transforming the typical institutional
setting into a vibrant, supportive, and inclusive community
SITE CONCEPT
The proposed eco-therapeutic retirement community starts with a comprehensive site analysis,
considering sun position, wind direction, noise sources, and natural features to optimize natural light and
airflow while reducing noise pollution. The site is zoned for coherent arrangement, separating residential,
recreational, therapeutic, and support zones. Residential areas feature clustered living units around
common courtyards, promoting social interaction. Recreational facilities include a multipurpose hall,
library, study and workshop room, and leisure rooms. Therapeutic zones with gardens and water features
are easily accessible. The support zone includes essential amenities like an infirmary and administrative
offices. Circulation design ensures seamless movement with well-lit, covered and secure paths connecting
all areas, promoting walkability and accessibility for elderly residents.
SITE WATER CYCLE
The proposed retirement community features a sustainable water cycle, emphasizing environmental
friendliness. Rooftop rainwater is collected, filtered through sand, and stored in an underground reservoir.
This purified water supports irrigation, bathing, laundry, and other clean water needs, serving as the
primary renewable water source.
Similarly, greywater from basins, laundries, and lavatories is collected, filtered, disinfected, and treated
to remove impurities. This treated water is also stored underground for reuse in various applications.
DESIGN STRATEGIES AND UTILITIES
•The design strategies include passive design elements, including proper ventilation across windows and
roofs, using trees as shade, and combining strategies to enhance thermal comfort and reduce energy use.
•The retirement community also ensures a secure and reliable water supply via a central reservoir.
•CCTV cameras and intercom systems are installed for security and easy interaction with residents and
staff.
•Wayfinding systems with directional, warning, emergency exit, and personalized room signs facilitate
easy navigation.
•Firefighting systems include fire detectors, alarms, extinguishers, sprinklers, and hose reels.
STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS
The proposed retirement community used Concrete Isolated footing for the Foundation, Concrete
columns wrapped in wood, and Treated Solid Wood Roof Framing. The design includes insulated roofing
sheets. Wood wall framing systems include thermal insulation and soundproofing and are clad with
Amakan.
Jalousie windows are also used to regulate the quantity of sunlight and ventilation that enters the space.
Ramps are also strategically placed throughout the facility to guarantee accessibility.
Natural clay Paving is used as a material for walkways, and it includes tactile ground surface indicators to
improve accessibility for visually impaired residents.
ASSISTED LIVING BUILDING
The assisted living building is a double-winged, cottage-type structure with a symmetrical design. It has
separate segments for male and female residents, connected by a common living and dining area to
promote social interaction. Each wing has a kitchen, and the bedrooms have sliding doors for privacy, with
options for single, double, or shared units. Rooms are equipped with intercom systems for easy
communication with residents and staff. The design accommodates wheelchair maneuverability.
Communal toilets and baths have safety features such as handrails, non-skid flooring, rubber mats, and
shower seats. There are also sleeping quarters for support staff, a lounge, and a pantry. The layout for the
assisted living building for couples includes similar features, with room variations offering shared or
separated bed units.
INDEPENDENT LIVING BUILDING
The independent living buildings are 2-storey structures with 6 bedrooms, designed for residents who can
perform daily tasks independently. Each building includes a common living and dining area, a kitchen, and
bedrooms with private toilets & baths. Room options include single, shared, and double-bed units. There
are four buildings for male residents, four for females, and three for couples. The layout promotes a
neighborhood feel and is close to communal amenities.
ADMIN BUILDING
The admin building is positioned at the front of the site and designed to be welcoming and inclusive for
residents and visitors. It features an open lobby layout that provides views of the surrounding
environment towards the rear of the building.
INFIRMARY
The infirmary provides medical care and treatment for injured and ill residents. It includes spaces such as
a pharmacy, psychological counseling room, treatment and therapy rooms, a laboratory, and an
examination room. There are also three isolation rooms, accessible through a separate entrance rather
than being integrated into the main building. The facility has ramps and ambulance parking to transport
residents to nearby hospitals for additional medical treatment.
CAFE & RESTAURANT
The facility also includes a café & restaurant offering various menu options to suit the preferences of
residents, staff, and visitors. It also serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors to meet and
socialize.
CONVENIENCE STORE
The convenience store which offers easy access to daily necessities, reducing the need for residents to
travel outside for essential items. It supports resident independence by providing personal items,
groceries, and household supplies.
GAME/ LEISURE HALL
The game and leisure hall which is a lively space offering activities such as billiards, mahjong, and board
and card games. It features a snack bar and a lounge, promoting relaxation and socialization among
residents.
LIBRARY
The library features bookshelves with a variety of books, study areas for reading and quiet activities, and
computer desktops for internet surfing. It serves as a hub for learning, leisure, and staying connected.
ECUMENICAL CHAPEL
The ecumenical chapel which features an open layout, allowing natural lighting and ventilation, creating
a serene and inviting atmosphere. The chapel is surrounded by therapeutic gardens and a pond. It is
centrally located within the site, it serves as residents' spiritual and communal focal point.
MULTIPURPOSE HALL
The multipurpose hall which features a basketball court and can accommodate up to 200 people for
events, including government programs. It is equipped with a platform, dressing rooms, making it suitable
for various activities and gatherings.
LEARNING & PRODUCTIVITY BUILDING
The learning & productivity building which offers a range of facilities to enhance residents’ skills and well-
being. It includes spaces like a classroom for educational activities, a music room for musical sessions, a
salon & barber for grooming, a workshop for hands-on crafts like weaving and sewing, and a fitness gym
for physical activities. These amenities support residents in staying active.
GAZEBOS/ OUTDOOR LOUNGE
The gazebos and outdoor lounges which offer comfortable seating, dining areas, mini kitchens, and bars.
They serve as relaxing outdoor spaces and meeting places for residents and visitors.
THERAPEUTIC GARDENS AND PONDS
Therapeutic gardens which include vegetable gardens, and ponds. The therapeutic gardens offer calming
spaces with aromatic plants and water features for relaxation and therapy. Vegetable gardens encourage
gardening activities, promote physical health, and provide fresh produce. Ponds add natural beauty and
attract wildlife.
ANCILLARY FACILITIES
The retirement community also includes a guard post at the entrance and exits of the facility, an electrical
& mechanical room, a material recovery facility, a gray water treatment facility, a utility & maintenance
office, and a laundry area.
NUMBER OF USERS (USER ANALYSIS)
ASSISTED LIVING UNIT
Assisted Living Quantity Number of Users Total
Building per Wing/Building
Male Wing 3 12 36
Female Wing 3 12 36
Support Staff 3 8 24
TOTAL 96
ASSISTED LIVING UNT (COUPLES)
Assisted Living Quantity Number of Users Total
Couples Building per Wing/Building
Couples Wing 2 18 36
Support Staff 1 8 8
TOTAL 44
TOTAL NUMBER OF ASSISTED LIVING BUILDING USERS >>> 140
INDEPENDENT LIVING UNIT
Assisted Living Quantity Number of Users Total
Building per Wing/Building
Male Building 4 12 48
Female Building 4 12 48
Couples Building 3 14 42
TOTAL 138
TOTAL NUMBER OF INDEPENDENT LIVING BUILDING USERS >>> 138
TOTAL NUMBER OF RESIDENTS: 246 MALE: 123 FEMALE: 123 COUPLES: 39 x 2 = 78
TOTAL NUMBER OF ASSISTED LIVING SUPPORT STAFF: 32
TOTAL NUMBER OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDING USERS: 278
TOTAL NUMBER OF BEDS: 260
NUMBER OF PARKING SLOTS: 25 (260 beds / 25 (1 lot per 25 beds)) =11 + 14 (for visitors and staff)
PSO (Percentage of Site Occupancy) = 40%
ISA (Impervious Surface Area) = 27%
USA (Unpaved Surface Area) = 33%
TOSL (Total Open Space Within Lot) = 60%
POSSIBLE QUESTIONS:
1. Who are the proponents of the project?
- The City of Dasmariñas is the proponent of the project.
2. Is the project feasible?
- The project primarily focused on a more practical and sustainable approach, reducing costs by
utilizing natural resources and incorporating passive design elements to lower energy consumption and
enhance energy efficiency.
- The project is also economically feasible since the target population is increasing, and there is a
growing demand for home care for the elderly.
3. How much is the roof catchment capacity?
- According to my calculations, for the annual rainfall of the site, the roof catchment capacity
would be 1 million liters. So, a 100,000-liter underground reservoir tank is provided. For the excess water,
it would be directed to the nearby Imus River
4. Fire resistive time period rating of wood beams and framing systems?
- There is a one-hour fire-resistive time period for the wood beams and roof framings since the
type of wood used is treated and is 150mm or 6 inches thick. Firefighting systems are also implemented
to reduce the risk of fires or prevent them from occurring.
5. What are the design strategies included in the design?
- Passive design is implemented, allowing as much natural lighting and ventilation as possible.
Wayfinding systems are also incorporated to assist and provide easy access to spaces without getting lost.
Tactile ground surface indicators and non-skid flooring are also used for safety and to assist some of the
visually impaired users in being independent and safe while walking. And lastly, the buildings are arranged
to be more neighborhood-like settings, with central communal amenities and therapeutic gardens, to
promote social interaction with other residents.
6. How is the therapeutic aspect reflected in the architectural design of the Retirement Community?
- Therapeutic Gardens and Outdoor Spaces where interaction with nature is proven beneficial for
mental health. Amenities for learning, physical exercise, spiritual connection, and social interaction reflect
the therapeutic aspects as these amenities promote the residents' physical, psychosocial, emotional, and
psychological well-being. Lastly, safety and inclusivity are implemented, improving mobility and
accessibility of the residents.
7. What sets your proposed design apart from the existing elder care facilities?
- My proposed design introduces several new and innovative elements. Firstly, it integrates eco-
therapy principles specifically tailored for elderly residents, which is not commonly seen in traditional
retirement communities. The Bahay Kubo concept inspires the design, promoting social interaction and
community living. Additionally, the use of natural materials and passive design elements not only reduces
costs but also significantly enhances energy efficiency and sustainability. This combination of eco-
therapeutic principles, cultural inspiration, and sustainable practices sets my design apart from
conventional retirement community models.
8. How do you define “community” in these types of facilities?
- In retirement communities, “community” denotes a supportive and interactive social
environment where residents share spaces, activities, and values. It encompasses regular social
interaction, shared facilities, mutual support, common interests, and inclusivity, all contributing to
residents' sense of belonging and well-being.
9. Describe the wood wall framing system.
- The wood wall framing system incorporates thermal and sound insulation for enhanced comfort
and efficiency. It features sturdy wooden studs, thermal insulation materials for temperature stability, and
soundproofing to reduce noise transmission. The walls are clad with Amakan, a durable and decorative
natural material, combining traditional aesthetics with modern sustainability principles in building design.
10. How does the Bahay Kubo concept show the architectural character of the proposed retirement
community?
- The proposed retirement community’s architectural design integrates elements of the Bahay
Kubo concept, such as wood, bamboo, and high-pitched roofs, reflecting cultural heritage and emphasizing
sustainability. The design fosters social interaction through clustered buildings and outdoor spaces,
promoting a sense of community among residents. Efficient use of space and natural ventilation enhance
comfort and energy efficiency, creating a therapeutic environment conducive to the well-being of elderly
residents.
11. What are the species of trees and plants that stimulate sensory?
The vegetation of the retirement community includes fruit and flower-bearing trees, which
include:
- Neem Tree – known for its medicinal uses and is a natural insect repellent
- Ipil-ipil – Provides shades with fragrant flowers
- Kamagong – a hardwood and fruit-bearing tree with dark, aromatic wood
- Molave – known for its durable wood and aromatic leaves
- Talisay – Provides shade and has aromatic leaves
- Kalumpit – bears small, fragrant flowers and edible fruits
The vegetation of the retirement community also includes aromatic and flowering plants, which
include:
- Ylang-Ylang – known for its sweet, floral fragrance
- Lemongrass – provides fresh scent and has medicinal properties
- Lavender – provides soothing fragrance
- Orchids – comes in various colors and fragrances
- Sampaguita – also has a sweet fragrance
- Kalachuchi – features fragrant, white or yellow flowers
12. What is the basis for the number of users?
- Ang naging basis ko po para capacity ng proposed retirement community is yung capacity rin ng
mga existing na government owned na Elder Care facilities sa Philippines. For example po, sa facility sa
Tanay, Rizal, meron po silang 300 na capacity, sa Quezon city naman po, currently meron silang 110 na
residents. Though, mallit lang po na percentage ang kine-cater nila sa 10% po na estimated ng DSWD na
neglected or abandoned na matatanda sa buong Pilipinas. Sa Dasmarinas po which yung proposed project
is located, 7.6% po ng population po is elderly, and over 3000 po ang estimated na neglected or abandoned
based din po sa percentage ng DSWD. So bale, yung propsed project po has a capacity of 250 residents, or
10% po ng estimated na neglected or abandoned population po ng Dasmarinas. Ang isang goal din po ng
project is ma-locate po siya sa sa urban area para malapit po sa community and healthcare facilities, and
nalimit po yung capacity dahil po yung mga government ownd lands po sa urban areas is limited para sa
capacity tulad po ng sa project, and usually yung mga available lands is unsuitable for for institutional use
or hindi po angkop para sa intended use niya.
14. What happens to the deceased residents of the retirement community? / Why didn’t you include a
mortuary in the design?
- When a resident passes away, the resident is respectfully prepared and transferred to a funeral
home or mortuary. Including a mortuary in a retirement home is discouraged due to the potential
emotional impact on residents. This might create a negative atmosphere and residents of mortality. Better
use the space for community amenities and services.
RESEARCH QUESTIONS:
1. To what extent do the physical and therapeutic environments of retirement homes affect the health and
well-being of elderly residents?
- A thoughtfully designed environment, considering accessibility, safety, natural elements, and therapeutic
approaches, can significantly impact the residents' physical and mental health. Access to well-designed
communal spaces, outdoor areas, and therapeutic gardens promotes physical activity, social engagement,
and emotional comfort. Proper lighting, calming colors, and sensory stimuli also create a positive
atmosphere that can alleviate stress and enhance well-being.
2. What are the architectural design considerations and strategies can be implemented to improve the design of a
retirement home?
3. How can the design of an elder care facility create a sense of community and connectivity for its residents?
- The proposed retirement community design promotes community and connectivity through
clustered buildings that create central communal spaces that foster social interaction, gatherings, and
activities, a Bahay Kubo-inspired layout for a neighborhood-like atmosphere, walkable pathways to
encourage exploration and interaction, and integration with nature for a therapeutic environment. These
elements collectively aim to create a cohesive and vibrant community where residents can build
relationships and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.
