Designing for aging well

Supporter's Column: Leanna Boxill

For over a thousand years, Almshouses have provided age-friendly housing in England. These small-scale, often charity-run dwellings are typically embedded in local communities, surrounded by gardens and shared spaces. Pairing affordable living with varying levels of social care, almshouses are known for reducing isolation and promoting a sense of purpose amongst their residents.

Life expectancy has continued to rise steadily in the UK over the past four decades, this ageing population will have profound implications for how we design and adapt our homes, neighbourhoods and care environments. As architects, the challenge (and opportunity) is to design models of housing that support autonomy, well-being, and social connection for older adults.

Research conducted in 2021 by the Centre for Ageing Better states that 80% of older people prefer to remain in their own homes as they age. However, traditional housing often falls short in accommodating the changing needs of older residents. Subtle adaptations, such as accessible entrances, level floors, and thoughtful bathroom design can help extend independent living. Flexibility is key, homes should be designed to accommodate change over time, empowering occupants to adjust as needed without relying on institutional intervention. Equally important is the social context in which housing is embedded; retaining ties to community, family and place contributes significantly to improved mental health and resilience in later life.

When remaining in your own home becomes untenable, a broad range of later-living options becomes essential. Specialist housing, community-led developments and care homes all have a role to play — but they should be reimagined not as last resorts; rather, as attractive, empowering alternatives.

The Charterhouse buildings are arranged around six courtyard gardens, each with their own distinct character, directly connecting the residents to the natural world beyond their rooms. Living independently within a communal environment is central to the success of the estate. Incidental meeting points, common dining areas and set communal meals encourage informal interaction, physical activity, and shared responsibility. In tandem with the natural surroundings, these interactions have been proven to reduce stress and enhance well-being —both critical to healthy ageing.

Open collaboration is at the heart of our practice - we believe that the best design outcomes emerge from honest conversation, not assumptions, about the lived experience of ageing. Every individual brings their own needs, histories, and values to a project, and our role as architects is to listen carefully and co-create with empathy.

As social housing budgets shrink, it is more important than ever to advocate for design that serves the full spectrum of life. A supportive planning and funding environment is crucial to the success of later-living initiatives. The demographic shift is already underway; the question is whether we will rise to meet it with imagination, care and respect? After all, isn’t a fulfilling, independent, and connected life something we all hope for, at every stage of life?