From Overlooked to Overlap: Designing for Intergenerational Connectedness Through Adaptive Reuse

Abstract

From Overlooked to Overlap explores how adaptive reuse can promote intergenerational connectedness and community well-being. Contemporary infrastructure often prioritizes the middle generation, leaving the very young and the very old spatially and socially siloed. This thesis challenges that condition by asking: How can obsolete typologies be adapted to bridge marginalized age groups, promote intergenerational connectedness, improve health and well-being, and foster community cohesion? The project is situated in South Silver Spring, an area marked by demographic aging, underutilized buildings, and emerging civic networks. It adapts a vacant former department store, most recently used as office space, into a hybrid wellness and daycare facility serving all ages. Through carving, overlapping volumes, and porous circulation, the existing structure supports both goal-oriented programming and informal encounters. Shared routines around health, wellness, and learning generate moments of connection across generations. Retaining much of the original structure and envelope, the design prioritizes light, air, and accessibility. Collectively, these strategies position the building as a neighborhood anchor that strengthens intergenerational connectivity and supports long-term community resilience, health, and well-being.