A Study on the Spatial Design Characteristics of Private Rooms in Nursing Homes in Denmark

Lee Dong Kim; Seo Ryeung Ju; Yi-Kyung Hong

doi:10.6107/JKHA.2026.37.3.097

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2026 Vol.37, Issue 3 Preview Page Next Page

Research Article

A Study on the Spatial Design Characteristics of Private Rooms in Nursing Homes in Denmark 덴마크 노인요양시설 개인실의 공간 디자인 특성 연구

25 June 2026. pp. 097-109

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Abstract

As South Korea enters a super-aged society, nursing homes are becoming essential housing alternatives, yet domestic facilities remain largely hospital-like environments focused on management efficiency. This study aims to analyze the spatial design characteristics of private rooms in Danish nursing homes—leaders in the “Aging in Place” and “from institution to home” paradigms—to derive implications for improving Korean facilities. The research investigated five facilities (three Plejebolig and two Plejehjem) using field surveys, manager interviews, and 3D modeling analysis of window-to-wall ratios. The findings are as follows: first, all facilities prioritized single rooms. Plejebolig units ranged from 41.50 m² to 43.00 m², and Plejehjem units measured 21.90 m² and 38.40 m², which are up to 4.5 times the Korean legal minimum (6.6 m²). Second, window-to-wall ratios of 56% to 62% maximized visual openness, and allowing personal furniture established a “home” identity rather than an institutional one. Third, ceiling-mounted hoists improved care efficiency, while handrails were installed selectively to balance medical functionality with a home-like environment. In conclusion, Danish cases demonstrate that private rooms must serve as a living space guaranteeing autonomy and dignity, suggesting that Korean nursing homes should shift their spatial focus from management efficiency to resident dignity.

Keywords

Nursing Home

Private Room

Spatial Design

Sense of Home

키워드

노인요양시설

개인실

공간 디자인

집 같은 느낌

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Information

Publisher :The Korean Housing Association
Publisher(Ko) :한국주거학회
Journal Title :Journal of the Korean Housing Association
Journal Title(Ko) :한국주거학회논문집
Volume : 37
No :3
Pages :097-109
Received Date : 2026-04-01
Revised Date : 2026-05-08
Accepted Date : 2026-05-18
DOI :https://doi.org/10.6107/JKHA.2026.37.3.097

Journal of the Korean Housing Association ISSN:2234-3571(Print) 2234-2257(Online) 한국주거학회논문집

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