Welcome to the New Urbanism Neighborhood
BY AMY JOHNSON
The baby boomer generation , born between 1946 and 1964 , is growing up . Some are empty nesters , some are retiring , and some 78 million are ready for a new kind of living . As they adjust to a new lifestyle centered around leisure and entertainment , this generation is looking to downsize and find a home that better meets their post-retirement needs .
Let ’ s make something very clear ; this aging generation has no intention of settling into the assisted living or a retirement homes like their parents did ( they actually dread the thought ). Baby boomers are the first to welcome their 60 + years with excitement — an opportunity for financial freedom , flexibility , and fun . This outlook is giving rise to a distinctly new kind of senior living community that offers independent living , modern conveniences , and a new beginning . In other words , senior living is embracing the development philosophy known as New Urbanism .
The rise in these developments clearly aren ’ t coincidental . Many real estate and multifamily developers have noticed the buzz surrounding the senior living market . These communities are becoming more distinguished , purposeful , and sought-after as architects and developers are turning the needs and lifestyle of the boomers into attractive amenities and new urbanist communities .
Out with the old , in with the New Urbanism
As trends come and go , some stick around to make a true impact on the community . New Urbanism is one of those . Stemming from the original philosophy of Walt Disney , New Urbanism was initially conceptualized as a “ community of the future .” Disney envisioned these garden cities with an urban core to be a solution against the chaotic lifestyle of urban cities .
Today , the school of thought mimics much of what Disney had dreamed up . Communities are designed around an urban center with walkability , sustainability , and connectivity at the forefront . The sheer design concept makes senior living a great fit for the new frontier of New Urbanism .
A neighborhood for the neighborly
While many boomers are opting to “ age in home ,” meaning embracing the advances in technology to maintain their needs without relying on assisted living , there ’ s a clear market for senior living in the multifamily space . As New Urbanist ideals begin to alter the designs of these communities , more of the demographic is drawn to the thoughtful design of housing , amenities , and the surrounding community .
This generation is very mindful of amenities and community design . From technology and nature trails to accessible and entertaining amenities , they ’ re looking for a new horizon of living . Here are some lifestyle amenities that fit under the New Urbanist umbrella and can truly set a senior living development apart .
22 | TRENDS • JANUARY 2017 www . aamdhq . org