Multigenerational models

At both my sessions at RDC and at KBIS there has been an emphasis on the resurgence of multi-generational families now living under one roof. This is really driving the need for the implementation of the principals of universal design.

At RDC we had a builder involved in the large scale, extremely expensive independent living facility end of the industry talk about how these mega-facilities are now failing. As the child of two parents who are trying to figure out what the next best step is for themselves as they begin to need simpler lives with less worry and more personal care options, I found this particularly fascinating. The reason for this failure is three fold - one, the cost alone pretty much excludes about 90% of the population. How many of us have the $600,000 deposit along with the monthly $5k for fees? Second, and this especially applies to my geographic area, these facilities require a ton of land to build on and as such are often out in the boonies, which is isolating. Third, is the 'I don't want to live with a bunch of old people' mentality that sort of works hand in hand with the isolation. Just because you're 60+ doesn't necessarily mean that you want to be surrounded solely by the same.

Developers are obviously taking note as interest in these large projects is winding down. So their solution is taken from a European model, where smaller communities are built closer to town. These communities will contain about 12 smaller units of housing, along with some common facilities such as a gym, function pace and outdoor space. They could be a combination of one and two story homes with the idea that it will attract residents of different ages who will want to come together to take care of one another. One neighbor with two children may be able to leave her children with her elderly neighbor in return for taking care of some of her errand and other needs. Perhaps dinner is prepared two or three times a week in the function space so that the community can come together to share a meal.

Much like architectural movements that tend to go from ornate to stark and then back to ornate again, it seems that family and community may be coming back into vogue. Yes, it's a little Utopia-esque but it makes sense to me that people are tired of feeling isolated and yearn for more sense of togetherness.