This project looks through the lens of a speculative future in Glen Waverley. Seeking to combat the rise of mental health and loneliness that comes from Empty Nest Syndrome, “the grief that a parent feels when their children move out of home.” Specifically focusing on the elderly Chinese immigrant in Glen Waverley, who may experience a detachment or isolation to their new life in Australia. This project seeks to create spaces that are familiar and engaging with their home country, whilst promoting social wellbeing and community identity.
Sectional Collage
Each space hosts a unique function. An activity that is familar to elderly Chinese immigrants. Activities like playing mahjong, reading the newspaper, going to the market or doing taichi.
Mr Chan plays Mahjong with Friends
Mahjong is a popular Chinese activity that fosters relationships and pushes community identity.
Floor Plans
Each floor hosts activities that are familiar to elderly Chinese migrants. Moving towards the upper floor the activities and programs become more private and quiet to cater towards the elderly residents.
Streetview
The project site is situated at the Glen Waverley train station. Repurposing the use of transport into the public market allows for greater accessibility and connection to other sites for elderly Chinese immigrants who typically don't drive.
Facade Collage
The building's exterior embraces the symbolic and cultural mores of the Chinese people. Items like the Chinese bifold door, paper lantern, golden ingot, paper folding and Chinese dragon pay homage to the rich and deep culture in a way that is ornamental or a motif around the facade.
The complentary collage is a depiction of the elderly Chinese experience and the disconnection in assimilating into a life in Australia.
Mr Chan Gardening with Friends
Gardening and caring for nature is a big aspect of Chinese culture, the rooftop terrace is a space that encourages social gardening and also rooftop taichi.
In the spirit of reconciliation Monash University acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
