Event: LeadingAge PA Annual Conference & Exposition

48-G. Exploring a New Model for Intergenerational Living

Presented by:
Mike McCloskey, Principal, Bernardon, Philadelphia, PA
Doug Hertsenberg, Principal, Bernardon, Wilmington, DE
Cheri Clarke Doyle, Senior Vice President, Development Management, Trammell Crow Company, Philadelphia, PA

Intergenerational living or “co-living” – which brings together individuals of different generations into a single community – has, as a concept, drawn significant interest in recent years.  Several intergenerational communities have been implemented in Europe and in the U.S., varying widely in format.  However, on the whole, the intergenerational concept is still relatively uncharted.  Could this revolutionary approach to senior living provide a successful solution to address ever changing consumer expectations and increased competition within the traditional senior living market?

Bernardon and Trammell Crow have collaborated to pioneer a progressive, intergenerational living concept that provides a dynamic, healthy environment for residents of all ages.  This session will reveal a case study situated in an urban setting in Southeastern Pennsylvania.  The site’s vibrant “Main Street” location includes shops, restaurants, a college and a hospital all situated within a few minutes of the community.  Assisted living, independent living and market rate apartments are incorporated into the community’s unconventional programming, along with best in class amenities, dining and retail space on the ground floor.

Session attendees will hear in-depth perspectives from the senior living design expert, multifamily design expert and senior living real estate developer who collaborated together on this project.  The presentation will take a look at the design process and examine challenges encountered along the way.  Our panelists will highlight some of the critical design, programming and marketing elements borrowed from both the senior living industry as well as the multifamily apartment market that make this concept successful.

Ultimately, this fascinating case study on intergenerational living presents a unique alternative to traditional senior living, which may serve as a viable option for senior living organizations looking for new models.  This session also offers a multitude of innovative ideas that can be incorporated into any senior living community to create a more attractive, inclusive environment for all ages.