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Introduction
In this intriguing conversation, Stephen Drew of the Architecture Social hosts Dominic Hailey from Collado Collins, a thought leader in modern architectural solutions for senior living. Together, they explore innovative approaches to transforming perceptions and realities of retirement communities.
Breaking Moral Stereotypes in Retirement Living
Dominic Hailey challenges the stereotypical concept of retirement communities as mundane areas with “beige walls and chairs,” often perceived as bland and uninspiring. He emphasizes the importance of designing spaces that cater to the diverse needs of the baby boomer generation—a group accustomed to choice and dynamism. These communities must look beyond traditional care home models to offer environments that truly enhance residents’ well-being.
From Idea to Reality: Influencing Design
Through part of his journey in architecture, Dominic discovered a passion for reshaping retirement living spaces. His experience operating in Clutter Collins and through projects like the Lansby in Stanmore has informed his innovative philosophy. Dominic prioritizes not just functionality, but also identity and excitement in building designs for retirement communities.
Changing the Game: Just Living Book and Thought Leadership
A highlight of Dominic’s work is the thought-provoking publication “Just Living,” co-created with Carly Dixon of the MIT Age Lab. This book aims to find the voice of the modern and future generations of older adults, sparking conversations around aging, ageism, and community design. “Just Living” reframes age-designated housing, urging a focus on generalized good-quality housing that is accessible for all ages.
Seizing Opportunities in the Retirement Sector
Hailey underscores the commercial potential of proactive design thinking in the retirement sector. Companies like AXA and Riverstone Living are investing heavily in sustainable, high-quality living solutions, with long-term returns being a driving factor. However, Hailey cautions about the existing challenges, such as the financial models dependent on output outcomes like churn rates—highlighting ethical considerations in profitability models.
Building a Future: The Vision at Collado Collins
Collado Collins, where Dominic is part of the senior team, stands at the forefront of combining commercial viability with visionary design. Their holistic approach in projects balances practical execution with innovation, making them a cutting-edge practice. The firm’s “Residential Design Guide for London” showcases Collado Collins’ commitment to delivering thought leadership and quality execution.
Call to Action
Eager to venture into the landscape of transformative senior living, Dominic invites collaboration and engagement. With renewed planning consents and upcoming projects like the ones in Berkhamsted, opportunities abound for architects interested in shifting paradigms in senior living design.
For more information on Dominic Hailey’s work and the transformative projects at Collado Collins, or to download the “Just Living” publication, feel free to contact Dominic directly at d.hailey@colladocollins.com or explore the firm’s projects on their website.
Dominic Hailey’s insights illuminate the immense potential within the aging sector, reinforcing that with thoughtful, innovative design, we can look forward to growing old in vibrant, supportive, and exciting communities. As Hailey and Drew conclude with the sentiment—it’s crucial to seize life and live it fully, regardless of age.
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