The evolving priorities in residential design: Health, sustainability, and age-friendly living spaces

Yue Lyu

doi:10.59400/be3228

The evolving priorities in residential design: Health, sustainability, and age-friendly living spaces

Yue Lyu
1 School of Civil Engineering, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312000, China; 53048830@qq.com

2 Centre of Rock Mechanics and Geological Disaster, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312000, China

Article ID: 3228

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59400/be3228

Keywords: sustainability, age-friendly, green building materials, spatial environmental quality, nursing homes

Abstract

In response to the growing global demand for age-friendly housing and the pressing need for healthier indoor environments for aging populations, this study empirically investigates and compares the efficacy of sustainable versus conventional building materials in elderly care facilities. Conducted over a six-month period in a subtropical region of China, the research employed a controlled, side-by-side experimental design in twelve residential rooms. We systematically quantified the impact of material choices on indoor environmental quality by monitoring key parameters: concentrations of PM2.5 and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), thermal and humidity regulation, and floor slip resistance. Results demonstrated that rooms utilizing advanced, low-emission materials (e.g., formaldehyde-free boards, bamboo composites, diatom mud) achieved a significant 30% reduction in PM2.5 and a 25% decline in VOC levels compared to rooms with conventional materials (e.g., medium-density fiberboard, solvent-based paints). Furthermore, these sustainable materials enhanced thermal stability, maintaining indoor humidity within an optimal 40–60% range, and improved wet-condition slip resistance by 200%, substantially mitigating fall risks. The findings translate into actionable, evidence-based design guidelines, emphasizing material specifications like low-VOC coatings and humidity-regulating wall systems. This work bridges material science, environmental engineering, and geriatric design, offering concrete strategies and policy implications for creating safer, healthier, and more sustainable living spaces for the elderly.

Published

2025-07-10

How to Cite

Lyu, Y. (2025). The evolving priorities in residential design: Health, sustainability, and age-friendly living spaces. Building Engineering, 3(3). https://doi.org/10.59400/be3228

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Vol. 3 No. 3 (2025)

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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