On January 14, the AIANY Design for Aging committee was pleased to host Latisha Millard-Bethea, Director of Human Services, NYC Housing Initiative for SAGE and Jorge Chang, AIA, Partner, Urban Architectural Initiatives (UAI) on an important and timely discussion focused on racial diversity, equity and inclusion in senior housing, moderated by Roberta Washington, FAIA, Founding Principal, Roberta Washington Architects.

As part of the AIA’s Call to Action on Anti-Racism, this panel offered insights into what role race has in senior housing in NYC (and beyond).  Topics included: Is not-for-profit or qualified-income senior housing more (or less) racially integrated than other housing in a given neighborhood/area? Are there any architectural design factors in senior housing where unconscious racial bias might come into play? What have architects for senior housing learned from the prospective tenants about their unique needs? Is there a “sweet spot” for number of residents that creates a rich, diverse community in senior housing?

During the panel, UAI’s senior housing programs and projects were presented. Stonewall House, SAGE’s first LBGT inclusive project located in Fort Greene, was also introduced and discussed. In case you missed it, stay tuned for a video of the event with extensive notes posted to this site in a few weeks.