Final Class Session (Thursday 8/23/07)

This is the information assembled for our last Theory Class during the intensive (no post-it notes included).


Designing Environments for the Aging

Category A: Design and Construction Documents
· Programming; Ensure that spaces are included which impact the users in a positive way and are appropriate and forward thinking.
“Dignity in Life”
· Site and Environmental Analysis; Designing exterior spaces that allow access, provide protection and stimulation of the senses (i.e. contrast, texture, smell, colors, sounds).
· Schematic Design; Design of the built environment which addresses the needs of the program and the resident, is visually delightful and is within the cost parameters identified.
· Engineering Systems Coordination; Provide systems which assist and provide comfort to the aged while not being complicated. The systems should address energy needs as best as possible at the time the building is designed.
· Building Cost Analysis; Diligently pursue what is included “in the numbers” to ensure that the maximum amount of money is being dispersed to areas of the building which have an impact on the resident
· Code Research; Challenge and pursue code changes which hinder the aged population (i.e. ADA was not designed with an older adult in mind and often does not accommodate them comfortably in all situations. Provide a greater level of accessibility than what is required in these situations!
· Design Development; Continued selection/design of materials and spaces presented in the Schematic Design Phase.
· Construction Documents; Detail the building to an appropriate level for costing and construction to help ensure the best price possible as well as detailing the materials and spaces to the end user.
· Specifications and Material Research; (see construction documents).
· Document Checking and Coordination; (see construction documents).
Category B: Construction Contract Administration
· Bidding and Contract Negotiation; (see construction documents).
· Construction Phase (office); (see construction documents).
· Construction Phase (site); (see construction documents).
Category C: Management
· Project Management; Assemble teams with appropriate skill sets to help ensure that as many needs and issues of the resident are addressed to the best of the teams ability.
· Office Management; Hire appropriate staff with skills to address the different needs of the project. Provide equipment and resources to the team to make success likely.
Category D: Related Activities
· Professional and Community Services; Volunteer for activities within an aged population to observe and learn from the environment. Discuss issues surrounding the aging population with other architects to learn from each other.
· Other Related Activities; Take part in conferences to learn and help educate others about issues which impact the Design of Environments for the Aging.