About Cluster for Architecture and Ageing

The Cluster for Architecture and Ageing brings together researchers, practitioners and partners to develop knowledge and innovation about how buildings, neighbourhoods and welfare institutions can become more age-friendly. 

An ageing society is not only a question of care, but also a question of building culture. As more people live longer and the older population ranges from active, independent individuals to those with intensive care needs, demands shift at every level, from the individual home, through shared spaces and neighbourhoods, to the towns, cities and rural districts we inhabit.

The cluster’s research is organised in three interconnected areas:

• Housing and Neighbourhoods examines how housing forms and shared environments can support independence, community and care across both densely populated and rural settings.
• Theory and Method contributes to the field with architectural approaches, critical concepts and co-creative methods that bring architecture into dialogue with gerontology, STS, the humanities and the health and social sciences.
• Dementia and the Built Environment focuses specifically on how spaces, light, materials and shared environments can support people living with dementia and their relatives.

The cluster works across research, teaching and collaboration with practice. Its research combines architectural analysis, research-by-design, prototypes and demonstrators, qualitative and ethnographic studies, and co-creative approaches with older people and local communities. The cluster contributes to PhD courses and master’s teaching, and works closely with municipalities, regions, housing organisations, NGOs and advisers in the construction sector, in Denmark and internationally.

The cluster works to strengthen European research and collaboration on architecture and ageing, and contributes to the development of inclusive, intergenerational neighbourhoods. As part of this work, the cluster seeks to join consortia under programmes such as Horizon Europe and the New European Bauhaus.