Circadian Care: Supporting health and memory through daylight in housing for couples affected by dementia

By Sigrunn Bergøy Hermansen

This project proposes housing that enables senior couples, where one or both partners experience cognitive decline or early-stage dementia, to continue living together with dignity and stability for as long as possible.

Image may contain: Floor, Ceiling, Glass, Chair, Hardwood.

Illustration from one of the homes in the project, showing the atrium at 14:30, 5th of August.

Diploma project Master level Architecture 2025

Project type: Diploma project; Master level
Programme: Architecture
Year: 2025

Supervisors:

Cathrine Vigander & Tine Hegli

Through supportive housing and community support, the project aims to reduce pressure on the healthcare system.

Daylight is the central design strategy for health and belonging. By shaping environments that support circadian rhythm, encourage movement and social connections, architecture can help sustain independence, strengthen community ties, and contribute to a more resilient approach to aging.

Rather than designing solely for care, the project aims to design for life, where health is supported not only through services, but through light, space, and everyday experience.

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