MEGAN PRITCHARD INTERIORS

DESIGNING A NEW WAY OF LIVING FOR ADULTS WITH INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT DIVERSITY

As life expectancies continue to increase in North America for intellectually developmental diversity adults (IDD), this population of the “baby boomer” created is expected to grow considerably as well. This substantial growth has generated various issues regarding availability of accessible and affordable assisted living communities and housing. 

This community design was developed through a process of understanding New Urbanism. This is a movement that promotes walkable neighborhoods containing a range of housing, job types and social environments. The community design is focused around three main principals; Way Finding, Population  Accommodation and Residential Engagement. Within the design, I have chosen to focus upon developing strategies that highlight the benefits of the neuro-considerate model, biophilic design, new urbanism, and naturally therapeutic environments. In order to appropriately accommodate various populations, it is highly necessary to provide a range of options to best suit individual needs and abilities through the entire community.

Overall, the community design and atmosphere is all about creating connections. Connecting residents and guests to each other through socially interactive spaces and connecting to natural stimulants through parks, water features, green spaces and the greenhouses. Lastly having the ability to connect a harmonious life style and balance for the growing IDD populations within the community is paramount.