Ashiyana Aging in Place Community Development
As our population ages, the need for well-designed, community-centered housing for aging in place has never been more urgent. Many individuals today face significant challenges in finding housing that meets their physical needs and fosters a sense of belonging, independence, and well-being. Aging in place should not be an isolated experience but rather an extension of a thriving, intergenerational community that supports social connections, cultural engagement, and a sense of purpose.
Studio VMA recently completed a comprehensive feasibility study for the Ashiyana Aging in Place Community Development, a forward-thinking initiative that reimagines housing for aging adults through the lens of spirituality, community, sustainability, and holistic well-being. The project supports the client’s vision to create an inclusive, biophilic, and environmentally responsible development that prioritizes intergenerational living and long-term sustainability.
Project Overview
Designed to accommodate approximately 200 residents, the proposed development includes barrier-free housing units, a multi-purpose community hall, outdoor wellness spaces, and a dedicated children’s learning centre—all interconnected within a warm, natural setting. The site plan prioritizes walkability, accessibility, and the integration of shared spaces that foster social connection, cultural expression, and multigenerational engagement.
A Community-Based Approach to Aging in Place
This feasibility study reflects Studio VMA’s commitment to designing environments that enable individuals to age with dignity, security, and purpose. By situating housing within a broader community framework, residents are supported by proximity to family, cultural centres, and spiritual spaces—key components of emotional and physical well-being. Programming and shared amenities are designed to strengthen relationships across generations and reduce social isolation.
Sustainable and Innovative Construction
The development leverages mass timber construction to achieve both aesthetic and environmental goals. Mass timber not only reduces embodied carbon but also offers a calming, biophilic quality that contributes to mental and emotional health. Prefabricated components, wood-fibre insulation, and sustainable exterior cladding are integral to the design strategy, ensuring a high-performance building envelope that minimizes operational costs and maximizes comfort.
Safety, Accessibility, and Dignity
Every aspect of the design prioritizes safety and accessibility. Residences feature step-free entries, wide doorways, and intuitive layouts for those with mobility challenges. Mass timber's inherent fire-resistant properties and long-term durability support a secure and resilient living environment.
A Model for Regenerative Community Design
The Ashiyana Aging in Place Community Development serves as a replicable model for other municipalities and organizations aiming to support aging populations within the heart of communities—not on the periphery. By blending sustainable materials, prefabrication methods, and a holistic approach to health and wellness, the project demonstrates what’s possible when architecture, care, and community are deeply integrated.