THE NEGATIVE ARCHIVE
A Memory Palace
An exploration of the effects of dementia on memory, cognitive ability and recognition of the world around us. Using this research to inform a design solution for tackling isolation, anxiety and personal neglect within people suffering from dementia.
Upon writing my thesis dissertation on the same subject matter, the research could be utilised to inspire various design ideas, taking into consideration the reactiveness of those with dementia to that of their environment.
Ensuring that there are sufficient communal spaces around the landscape as well as inside the design to promote social activity and aid in the battle of loneliness. These spaces are catered to the various needs of the users and therefore have a multitude of functions.
Community
A Tranquil Space
In morning's gentle light, she'd sit,
Her trembling hands held memories, bit by bit.
A battle raged within her clouded mind,
Dementia's relentless, unyielding bind.
Childhood's cottage, laughter, and embrace,
Faded like whispers, a wistful trace.
Love's first spark, his eyes so bright,
Precious treasures, fading out of sight.
Darker shards of confusion and despair,
Thorns of frustration, heavy in the air.
Family's love, steadfast by her side,
In her labyrinth of memories, they'd reside.
Her battle against dementia's cruel decree,
A courageous fight, a spirit soaring free.
In the darkness, love remained her guiding star,
A memory worth holding, no matter how near or far.
In a quiet room, a melody's soft embrace,
She closed her eyes, found a tranquil space.
Lost in the labyrinth, but not alone,
Love's enduring memory, in her heart was sown.
Days turned to weeks, weeks into a haze,
Each moment a struggle in a myriad of ways.
Yet, clarity shone like rays of dawn,
Love endured, though her memories were drawn.
Since the site is situated on the Isle of Wight, there was no real way to visit in person. However, through the use of land survey data, social data, historic maps, and map surveys, well-informed research could be undertaken to understand exactly what is on site.
Through this research, it was understood that there used to be a brickmaking industry with various spread-out locations for creating, forming and distributing bricks on-site. This has heavily informed the design.
Mapping Bouldnor
Ensuring that there is a personal level of customisation within the homes of residents, a window system was founded and inspired by old industrial windows.
Each window can be customised with a variety of types of inserts, ranging from stained glass (that can be created with community activities), wire clips to picture slides.
Personalisation
Taking the old Bouldnor battery site and reimagining it to be used for the community of those suffering with dementia. The idea is to take something that is deemed as unusable and redundant and reform it into something new.
Repurposing
Gallery
