Smart Retrofitting Design for Urban Residential Buildings

Smart Retrofitting Design for Urban Residential Buildings

Addressing the global aging trend, this project proposes a smart and life-cycle adaptive retrofitting scheme for a typical 67m² urban residential unit. The original layout suffered from low space utilization, a lack of age-friendly facilities, and the difficulty of integrating smart systems post-renovation.

"Good House" concept is more than just a dwelling; it is a "living organism" that understands its residents. Guided by eight core values—Applicable, Economical, Green, Aesthetic, Safe, Comfortable, Smart, and Sustainable—it supports the dynamic evolution of space across four life stages: Comfort at 55, Freedom at 65, Safety at 75, and Dignity at 85.

Three Major Design Innovations

1. Smart Butler AI Agent: Configured with a dedicated Smart Agent in each space, the system proactively senses and learns, providing non-intrusive health monitoring and emotional companionship.

2. Cross-Generational Upgradable Infrastructure: By transforming smart systems into infrastructure similar to water and electricity, and using modular assembly walls with pre-embedded interfaces, the design ensures continuous upgradeability for 30 years.

3. Atomic Age-Friendly Home Modules: Deconstructing complex renovations into dozens of plug-and-play micro-modules (e.g., multifunctional folding cabinets, accessible bathroom units), this approach reduces costs while precisely matching the needs of different life stages.

Design Values

The project tripled storage capacity (from 11.3m³ to 31.0m³) and improved indoor daylighting and ventilation through layout optimization. Detailed designs like the "Concealed Grab Bar System" and "Shower Buffer Zone" ensure safety while preserving the dignity of seniors.