Reconnect Generations: Intergenerational Housing

Thesis (Master's)--University of Washington, 2015-12Historically, senior housing facilities have separated seniors from other generations and created large complexes that are disconnected from city neighborhoods. This age segregated environment not only impacts the wellbeing of seniors but also negatively affects the lives of younger generations. Because individuals of different ages do not occupy the same space, seniors, children, and young adults do not have opportunities to understand and learn from other generations. Senior housing needs strategies to create more intergenerational relationships and blend into the broader community. As an alternative to senior housing, this thesis proposes mixed-use, intergenerational housing that brings people of different ages together, promotes a sense of place, and strengthens community ties. To achieve these goals, it analyzes these issues in three different scales: people, buildings, and the urban context. As for people, this thesis explores mutigenerational housing, shared spaces, and the balance between public and private spaces to encourage interaction among people of different ages. As for buildings, the idea of fine urban grain is examined to create homelike environments and pedestrian walkability. And, to connect to its surrounding urban context, open spaces such as alleyways and third places are researched