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Title of the thesis: Två kvalitetsbegrepp: som ler och långhalm? Arkitektonisk kvalitet gentemot faktorer för förbättrad livskvalitet inom äldreboende

Thesis defender: Stefan Ahlman
Opponent: Magnus Rönn, title of docent, Kulturlandskapet, Sweden
Custos: Professor Pirjo Sanaksenaho,Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture

Is it possible to demonstrate that the architect adds value through well-executed designs that contribute to the good life? This question is fundamental for those who shape our physical environment through their work. The link between architectural quality and quality of life is perceived as something of a given in the profession, a raison d'être for the practising architect. 

The thesis focuses on the two concepts of quality and seeks common denominators that clarify the relationship as real and demonstrable. To achieve clarity, the study is limited to a specific architectural assignment, the nursing home, and processes material from a total of ten architectural competitions in Sweden and Finland. 

What is architectural quality and what is quality of life? The first objective of the thesis is to create a definition for architectural quality and then compare this with characteristics of quality of life. These characteristics were developed in a thesis in health care science at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. 

Architectural quality, which is often described in the literature as a fundamentally controversial concept, is analysed and clarified in the thesis to consist of four fields of knowledge: Artistry, Professionalism, Insight and Presence. The study summarises, given its limitations, that architectural quality supports the conditions for a better quality of life in terms of activity and well-being. A link to factors in the physical environment that improve quality of life emerges with great clarity. The study transforms and clarifies the ancient three-word definition of architectural quality, Convenience (Utilitas), Durability (Firmitas) and Beauty (Venustas), to be described as: Beautiful, Useful and Justified. Architecture serves its users and its culture, is timeless yet contemporary and finally, architecture is ethics and responsibility. 

The usefulness of the thesis is twofold. On one hand, it creates a tool for developing the profession and teaching in a concrete direction. On the other hand, it strengthens the importance of scientific cooperation between architecture and health sciences to create quality of life through good living environments.

Keywords: Architectural quality, competence, quality of life, relation, architect, design, architectural activity, architecture competition, Finland and Sweden, housing for elderly people.

Thesis available for public display 10 days prior to the defence at . 

Contact information: 

Stefan Ahlman 
+358-400-443807 
steffi@stefanahlman.fi