Warner Design Associates on interior design and senior living at The Summit
“…Interior design can be used to help develop [a] sense of community, one that goes far beyond just the physical space. Design impacts the way humans interact with the space and those around them, so the goal of designers in the senior living industry should be to not only create an attractive living space, but one that supports residents in living a fulfilling life.
How do we create designs that foster a sense of community? Think of public or private spaces that encourage social interaction in everyday life; these are usually dining rooms and restaurants, gyms, hair salons, “man caves,” a family room, playgrounds, etc. These can be (and have been) re-created in a relevant way in senior living communities.
The Summit at Sunland Springs, an assisted living community in Mesa, Ariz., for example, has established Noah’s Place, a room full of toys, activities, and even a Wii gaming console to create a space where families with children can spend an enjoyable visit. This creates a sense of community among residents who not only get to spend time with their own families but get to know each other’s families, like how parents and grandparents bond over watching their kids and grandchildren playing at a park.
Summit at Sunland Springs also features a spin on the “man cave” by offering The Garage, a space in which residents can relax in recliners while watching a game or TV show, use the communal table and workstations to work or tinker on model cars/airplanes, and store their in-progress projects in lockers for another day. Imagine a group of residents discussing a time to meet to watch a game or work on projects together. Providing this type of space helps create the same opportunities for making connections that residents have become used to prior to moving into a senior living community…”
By Cynthia Warner
Read the full article or learn more about Warner Design Associates, or visit The Summit’s Gallery page to see more of their excellent work!
