Please note: this is the latest version of the DFAR publication that is available. Quantity is limited, so purchase is on a first come, first serve basis. Look for the next edition, DFAR13, to be released this fall!

This compilation of more than 30 outstanding projects in the areas of assisted living, continuing care retirement communities, and nursing homes represents the best current work designed by architects for the ever-increasing aging population. Each project is presented with photographs, detailed plans, and statistics, illuminating the high level of research, planning and community involvement that goes into these advancements in living environments for seniors.

New kitchen and bathroom mounting technology can help architects meet universal design objectives

By Gary Nowitz 

Photo courtesy of Pressalit Care.

“Universal Design” is a relatively new concept in architecture. Universal Design initiatives seek to create buildings that feature not only easy access but also especially-designed equipment and accessories that meet the needs of the broadest possible range of citizens, including elderly and disabled individuals. Further, when it comes to built-in or wall-mounted equipment, manufacturers are dramatically improving the ease-of-use aspects of items ranging from toilets and sinks to kitchen cabinets and countertops.

Universal design and the outdoor landscape

By Jack Carman, FASLA

A shaded sitting area in the Sensory Garden at St. John Neumann Nursing Home, which was completely renovated by Design for Generations, LLC.

Universal design, within homes and community buildings, is on the top of many ‘to do' lists. Unfortunately, the implementation of universal design principles in outdoor environments is slower to gain acceptance. Yet at the same time, an increased focus on maintaining access to nature has given rise to a need to strengthen our indoor/outdoor connections. It has been proven that our interactions with the natural world improve health, increase physical strength, boost mental alertness, and encourage socialization.

Who says accessible design can't be beautiful?

By Don Argus, AIA

This project from FabCab, a recipient of the 2016 AIA/HUD Secretary’s Award, aimed to combine accessibility and attractiveness. Image credits: Dale Lang.

One of our key practice values at FabCab is to mainstream universal design (UD) as a design criterion that we fulfill by default. This was a major factor for a retired couple who selected us to design a modern and attractive primary home that would accommodate them both now and in the years to come.

Universal design. Why now?

By Steve Scheirman - Universal design - It sounded compelling and intriguing when I first heard of it. Sounded like something an architect would certainly know about, but I didn’t. Would I find “universal” design to be truly universal - both applicable to particular needs such as design for older people and adaptable to a broad spectrum of people and circumstances?

A new take on old

By Steve Cimino for AIA Architect

Photography: Gregory Cowley.

Alexis Denton, AIA, works in SmithGroupJJR’s San Francisco office and focuses on the design of senior living communities. A gerontologist and a member of AIA’s Design for Aging Knowledge Community Advisory Group, she advocates for transforming the perception of “what everyone expects ‘old folks housing’ to look like.” For Denton, changing perceptions starts with changing the way a senior living community looks. “My pipe dream is to create a place where anyone might walk by and think, ‘I want to live in a place like that,’ ” she says.

Call for submissions: 2016 AIA Upjohn Research Initiative Grants

The Upjohn program funds up to six research grants of $15,000-$30,000 per recipient annually for projects completed in a 6 to 18 month period. Proposals should address the value of design, practice issues, or novel materials and methods of construction. The research should relate to architectural knowledge that can readily be applied within the discipline. Submit your proposal by September 1, 2016 11:59pm Pacific time.