Anna Shevchenko

Anna Shevchenko is a University Professor in the Department of Design and Qualitative Research in Architecture at the Faculty of Architecture, Silesian University of Technology. With a habilitated doctor degree obtained in 2018 and a doctorate from 2007, she has established herself as a leading expert in architectural design focused on elderly populations and healthcare environments.

Her educational background includes:

• Habilitated Doctor (Dr. hab.) - 2018
• Doctorate - 2007

Professor Shevchenko's research focuses on the quality of the built environment in relation to user needs and preferences, with particular emphasis on design for older adults, hospital architecture, universal design, and the health-promoting potential of architectural spaces. She has authored numerous publications on universal design and the quality of built environments, especially healthcare facilities designed for older populations. Her work bridges architectural theory with practical applications, as evidenced by her conceptual works and expert opinions on facilities for older adults including geriatric wards and senior homes.

Her 82 publications demonstrate consistent scholarly output in architecture and urban planning, with a particular focus on elderly-centered design. The research shows a clear trajectory toward creating built environments that support aging populations, with increasing attention to evidence-based design principles and cross-cultural comparisons, particularly in her recent work comparing Gliwice and Barcelona.

Among her notable recognitions:

• Recipient of the Polish Academy of Sciences' scientific award for her habilitation thesis "Geriatric Care Spaces. Shaping the Architectural Quality of Hospital Geriatric Wards"
• Distinction in the Gazeta Wyborcza competition "Designed in a Human Way" (2023) for the Urban Health Path concept

Professor Shevchenko actively contributes to academic and professional communities through her role on the Board of the Polish Gerontological Society. She has initiated impactful educational projects such as "Silesian Sitting," an architecture student competition that bridges academic learning with real-world design challenges for aging populations. Her collaborative work extends to international projects, particularly the Urban Health Path concept developed for Gliwice and Barcelona, demonstrating her commitment to creating age-friendly urban environments through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Her research laboratory focuses on design research methodologies that connect architectural theory with user experience, particularly for vulnerable populations. The team employs mixed methods approaches including qualitative assessments of user experiences, spatial analysis, and evidence-based design principles to create more responsive built environments.