This article was recently published by CREJ’s Health Care, Senior Housing & Life Sciences Quarterly. To read the full article, click here.
KEPHART’s Edward Mitchell offers a thoughtful perspective on the evolving landscape of senior living design, informed by firsthand research into the challenges of selecting a community for an aging parent. Touring communities across the country highlighted how thoughtful design choices can profoundly impact dignity, independence, and quality of life for older adults.
Daylight, ceiling height, and unit design emerged as defining factors of livability. Bright, airy spaces with tall windows and intentional color palettes fostered warmth and vitality, while dim corridors and dated layouts reinforced an institutional feel. As demand shifts toward smaller units, well-planned storage, natural light, and spatial efficiency have become essential to creating a true sense of home.
The article also notes a shift from institutional design to hospitality-inspired environments. Modern communities feature concierge-style lobbies, intimate cafés, and flexible lounges that empower residents to live with greater autonomy. This design evolution signals a cultural shift—from facilities that manage aging to places that celebrate continued living.
Operational flexibility further distinguishes the most successful developments. Dual-licensed buildings allow residents to age in place without disruption, while adaptable layouts accommodate varying care levels. Pet-friendly features, accessible outdoor spaces, and proximity to neighborhood amenities foster emotional well-being and connection to place.
As Edward Mitchell concludes, the future of senior living lies in design that blends empathy with innovation—creating communities where aging is not a decline, but a continuation of a life well-lived.
Many thanks to CREJ’s Health Care, Senior Housing & Life Sciences Quarterly for featuring KEPHART’s perspective on this vital topic.
To learn how thoughtful design can elevate senior living communities, click below.
