2025

The Living Thread: An Intergenerational Wellness Center

Entrant

Zeyu Liu

Category

Interior Design - Intergenerational Wellness Center

Client's Name

Country / Region

United States

The Living Thread is an intergenerational wellness center that reimagines health as a shared, relational experience across age groups. Designed for older adults and children, the center responds to challenges such as social isolation, emotional disconnection, and limited opportunities for meaningful physical activity.



Inspired by the idea of a continuous thread that weaves across generations, the interior space encourages gentle rhythms of interaction, memory, and calm. At the heart of the design is a circular courtyard with a tranquil water feature, surrounded by multifunctional rooms that support movement, rest, and shared meals. Soft pastel greens and blush pinks create a soothing atmosphere and enhance cognitive clarity, especially for individuals with sensory sensitivity.



Health considerations shape every aspect of the space. Storytelling corners and shared kitchens nurture emotional connections and stimulate cognitive engagement. A memory wall encourages empathy and intergenerational conversation. The wellness pool and meditation space support gentle movement, flexibility, and emotional balance. The environment invites users to slow down, notice one another, and engage comfortably, supporting independence and connection.



This project offers a holistic, multi-sensory approach to wellness. It creates a setting where presence, belonging, and shared daily experiences contribute to well-being. The Living Thread presents a replicable model for how communities can foster intergenerational health through thoughtful, human-centered design.

Credits

Aging Researcher and Human-Centered Designer
Zeyu Liu
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