Geroarchitecture: CASACOR BA projects bring practical solutions for longevity

The increase in life expectancy and the growth of the elderly population have already begun to reshape not only society, but also the way we think about living spaces. In this scenario, geroarchitecture gains relevance by proposing spaces more attentive to the changes that come with aging.

Milena Saraiva Arquitetura e Interiores - Casacura-Qualivida - Loft Regenerativo. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

The concept can be defined as "the planning and adaptation of physical spaces to promote safety, autonomy and well-being for the elderly public." At CASACOR Bahia 2026, the CasaCura - Qualivida, designed by Milena Saraiva, presents some of these premises in practice, articulating architecture, comfort and longevity in a single project. Below, we spoke with the architect to understand how these principles can also work beyond the exhibition.

Architecture designed for all stages of life

One of the foundations of geroarchitecture lies in understanding aging as a natural part of the human experience — and, therefore, also of the planning of spaces. Instead of waiting for physical limitations to appear in order to then adapt the residence, the proposal is to incorporate, from the design stage, features that allow the home to accompany its residents over time.

Milena Saraiva Arquitetura e Interiores - Casacura-Qualivida - Loft Regenerativo. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

Inspired by the theme Mind and Heart, of CASACOR 2026, the CasaCura - Qualivida positions itself as the "first regenerative loft of CASACOR" and brings together solutions related to geroarchitecture in a proposal that combines functionality, welcoming and sensory well-being.

Milena Saraiva Arquitetura e Interiores - Casacura-Qualivida - Loft Regenerativo. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

"Our life has several phases. And why doesn't our architecture keep up with that? It was a bit of this provocation that we wanted to bring to CASACOR: to show that the home evolves along with our story! It is not about adapting a project for fragility, but about enhancing every phase of life, allowing everyone to feel integrated and respected," says Milena in an interview with CASACOR.

Geroarchitecture: how does it work in practice?

Safety and autonomy are among the central points of geroarchitecture, but they can be incorporated into the project in a way that is integrated with the decor. Freer circulation paths, attention to ergonomics and furniture that reduces the risk of accidents are some of the resources capable of making the home more comfortable as its residents age.

Milena Saraiva Arquitetura e Interiores - Casacura-Qualivida - Loft Regenerativo. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

At CasaCura-Qualivida, for example, these guidelines appear in the fluid circulation and in the elimination of corners and sharp edges on the furniture. "Everything was designed within the golden ratio. Our body knows when we are in a safe place. This was one of the principles for developing the layout."

Milena Saraiva Arquitetura e Interiores - Casacura-Qualivida - Loft Regenerativo. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

The concept also establishes connections with neuroarchitecture, through the use of textures, colors, and sound frequencies associated with well-being. Natural materials, such as stone, linen, and wood, are part of the projects at CASACOR Bahia 2026, while biophilia and the study of the circadian cycle appear as strategies related to comfort and longevity.

Milena Saraiva Arquitetura e Interiores - Casacura-Qualivida - Loft Regenerativo. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

"Both the principles of geroarchitecture and neuroarchitecture were designed to have a function, yet without sacrificing sophistication. We wanted to break that idea that a space for an elderly person, a person with disabilities, or someone in home care needs to have a hospital-like appearance."

Small changes, big impacts

Designing a home prepared for longevity does not necessarily mean carrying out major renovations. Many of the principles of geroarchitecture can begin with specific adjustments to the layout, lighting, and furniture, capable of reducing risks and facilitating daily activities.

Milena Saraiva Arquitetura e Interiores - Casacura-Qualivida - Loft Regenerativo. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

"The first step is clearing routes, by removing loose rugs and possible obstacles. Lighting is also extremely important for the elderly public; it is worth paying attention to spot lights and guided lighting [which directs internal and external paths]. That's where integrated universal design comes in, with the inclusion of support bars, for example."

Milena Saraiva Arquitetura e Interiores - Casacura-Qualivida - Loft Regenerativo. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

Furniture planning should also take into account needs that may arise throughout the aging process. Accessible storage areas make it easier to organize medications, hospital equipment, wheelchairs, and cylinders when needed. Adjusting the height of beds, sofas, and chairs and prioritizing furniture with rounded corners are other measures that contribute to a safer routine.

Technology can enhance autonomy and safety

Gerontoarchitecture can also incorporate technological resources when they contribute to residents' independence and safety. Home automation allows for the simplification of certain tasks and offers support especially in situations of reduced mobility, as long as it serves the routine.

One example is voice activation, cited by Milena as an especially useful solution for bedridden elderly people or those with mobility difficulties. Presence sensors can also make nighttime movements safer, especially when installed near the bed and toilet.

Milena Saraiva Arquitetura e Interiores - Casacura-Qualivida - Loft Regenerativo. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)

At CasaCura, Qualivida also presents a feature aimed at identifying household accidents. "Following a supplier's suggestion, I installed a fall sensor. It's like an internet router that maps the space, and these records are monitored by Qualivida. If the resident falls, the sensor automatically alerts the company, as well as a family member, to provide assistance to the elderly person."

In the logic of gerontoarchitecture, however, technology plays a supporting role, not a leading one. The goal remains the same one that guides the other choices in the project: to create conditions for the home to foster autonomy, safety, and quality of life over the years. "Our home has to be analog so that we can turn to each other, but at the same time it has to have technology serving us, not distracting us," concludes the architect.