Livable Communities

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“Our research shows that nine out of 10 people want to stay in their homes for Higher toekicks, a pot filler and drop-in range are among the many features that make this kitchen accessible for a wheelchair-bound resident. Photograph by Mike Butler. © 2008 AARP as long as possible as they get older,” says Senior Vice President for Livable Communities at AARP Elinor Ginzler. To recognize forward-looking builders, remodelers and developers whose projects allow people to do just that, AARP—a nonprofit membership organization that represents and assists people aged 50 and older—and the National Association of Home Builders—a trade association representing builders, remodelers and others involved in residential construction—created the Livable Communities Award in 2007. “This year, AARP celebrates its 50th anniversary with the theme of ‘Generations Connecting for Change,’ ” says Ginzler. “At AARP, we believe that having livable spaces for people of all physical capabilities—grandparents with walkers, toddlers with toys—facilitates that bond. This award honors the spirit of innovation in design and underscores our commitment to connecting generations. Our hope is that the award will give more building professionals an incentive to explore and employ design approaches that make homes and communities safer and more comfortable for all residents, no matter their age, needs or abilities,” Ginzler, a livable community expert, says. The award recognizes individual home projects that have been built or renovated for accessibility, as well as entire communities, both new and old. Individual Home Awards The winners of the Livable Communities Awards in 2008 include two single family homes: Roll-out trays in the base cabinets make items stored in the back more accessible. Photograph by Mike Butler. © 2008 AARP The Rathbun Residence in Brea, California, won for its large-scale accessible renovation. This upscale project in Orange County was completed for a wheelchair-bound homeowner by Interior Design Details. The luxury home lost none of its aesthetic appeal or comfort in the remodel. In fact, the addition of a custom shower, home automation, wider hallways, graceful archways, granite and tile make the home even more valuable, as well as more comfortable and accessible for its occupants. For more on this project, view the award video. The Freedom Home in Tampa, Florida, by New Millennial Homes is a unique, new construction project. Its builders’ goals were to create a fully accessible, completely affordable and energy-friendly residences for seniors, returning combat veterans and the disabled. It succeeded on every levels. The Freedom Home’s friendly, Craftsman-style curb appeal belies its low-income price tag and its interior feels spacious, comfortable and well-appointed rather than institutional. The energy-saving benefits are completely hidden except to the homeowners spared Central Florida’s typically high air conditioning bills. The builders are working on expanding the Freedom Home concept to colleagues around the country who can build them to local codes and meet the growing base of local residents’ needs. For more on this project, view the award video.

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