| dc.description.abstract | This thesis explores how the physical environment, through spaces and their connections, can positively impact the overall wellness and productivity of senior citizens. This thesis aims to prove the level of engagement that seniors participate in can be affected by the community and accessibility levels they are provided with and this in turn can in turn affect their quality of live. The typology of this thesis is a senior living facility, that provides minimal assistance if needed, that also provides spaces that are open to the community for activities, programs, and classes as well. The site is located in the Issaquah Highlands on the western side of rainy and mountainous Washington State. The site is on the outskirts of town, assigned to the future development area, but is conveniently located near everyday amenities like grocery stores, banks, health clubs, and the hospital. Issaquah Highlands has the infrastructure to support this thesis while the thesis itself will add an element the town is in need of. This site itself is fairly vacant with low grow shrubbery and a few trees therefore no existing structures will be disturbed or taken away. With mountains, evergreens, and Lake Samamaish as the vistas the site is surrounded by nature while having the convenience being right in a town that was newly designed for walkability. The justification for this thesis is driven by the fact that there is a huge demand for senior housing with the baby boomer population quickly rising and reaching the ages where alternative housing options are necessary. Likewise, the idea of senior housing affects everyone whether it be a relative or family friend, one day most will be faced with the decision to move to a facility that can provide adequate care. Therefore the concept of senior living has room for improvement that can be enhanced by the concept of thesis design through accessibility, community engagement, and green elements. This thesis will cater to the seniors 65 and older of the Issaquah area that are in need of an alternative housing option, or assisted care because their current living situation is inadequate for some reason or another. | en_US |
