As the population ages, there’s a growing recognition that senior housing needs to evolve beyond the traditional model of retirement communities. Today’s seniors aren’t just looking for a place to live—they’re seeking vibrant, walkable communities infused with art, music, and a deep connection to the culture of their surroundings. Developers, architects, and city planners are increasingly embracing this shift, creating spaces where placemaking—the thoughtful design and integration of public spaces—meets the specific needs of older adults.
Incorporating art and music into senior housing developments isn’t just about beautifying spaces; it’s about creating environments that stimulate the mind, foster social interaction, and encourage physical activity. Additionally, as real estate developers face challenges in identifying new sites for senior housing, many are turning to former hotels, resorts, and even college campuses as ideal settings for reimagined senior communities. These spaces are often already designed with walkability, community, and hospitality in mind—key elements of successful senior housing.
Bob Waun, co-founder of DIRT Realty and a recognized expert in placemaking, believes that art and culture should be central to the design of senior living spaces. "Senior housing needs to be more than just a place to sleep—it should be a place that engages the senses, fosters creativity, and builds community. Art and music are essential components in making these spaces come alive," says Waun. "At DIRT Realty, we’ve studied several projects, and our research shows that integrating art and culture into the physical foundations of senior housing isn’t just viable—it’s transformative."
Why Art and Music Matter in Senior Housing
Art and music have long been recognized as essential to well-being, particularly for older adults. Numerous studies show that engaging in creative activities can help reduce stress, combat loneliness, and even delay cognitive decline. For senior housing developments, incorporating art and music into the very fabric of the community can create a vibrant, uplifting environment that enhances quality of life.
Cognitive Health: Research from institutions such as the National Institute on Aging suggests that participating in creative activities like art and music can help improve cognitive function, boost memory, and reduce the risk of dementia. Art studios, music rooms, and performance spaces are becoming increasingly common in senior housing developments as a result.
Social Interaction: Public art installations, community performances, and art workshops provide natural gathering points for residents, encouraging social interaction and reducing isolation. For seniors, who may face increased loneliness as they age, these spaces provide a sense of community and belonging.
Physical Engagement: Integrating walkable outdoor spaces featuring public art, gardens, and sculptures can encourage residents to get outside and stay active. Walkability is critical to healthy aging, and art-filled paths, plazas, and courtyards create beautiful, inviting environments that encourage movement.
"Art and music aren’t just nice to have in senior housing—they’re essential," says Waun. "They create spaces where people want to gather, engage, and build connections. And for seniors, staying active—both physically and mentally—is key to living well."
Successful Senior Housing Projects with Art and Walkability
Across the U.S., developers are reimagining senior housing in ways that incorporate art, music, and walkable design. Here are a few examples of successful projects that demonstrate the power of these concepts:
1. The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights, New York City
The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights is a luxury senior living community that was once a historic hotel. It now combines elegant design with modern senior care, creating a unique environment where art and culture play a central role. The community features curated art collections, music programs, and partnerships with local cultural institutions, including the Brooklyn Museum and the New York Philharmonic, offering residents direct access to the arts. The building’s walkable location in Brooklyn Heights provides residents with easy access to parks, cafés, and cultural landmarks, fostering a sense of connection to the broader community. Learn more about this project on the Watermark Brooklyn Heights website.
2. Mather, Evanston, Illinois
Mather, located in Evanston, Illinois, is a senior living community designed with walkability and cultural engagement at its core. Built on a model of urban senior living, Mather features public art, on-site performances, and art workshops for residents. Located near Northwestern University, it offers residents the chance to attend university lectures, events, and performances. The project proves that integrating seniors into existing cultural and academic ecosystems creates vibrant, intellectually stimulating communities. Mather is also part of Mather Institute’s Age Well Study, which researches how wellness-focused communities impact seniors' health. Learn more at the Mather Evanston website.
3. John Knox Village, Pompano Beach, Florida
John Knox Village, a continuing care retirement community in Pompano Beach, Florida, recently underwent a major expansion to incorporate new residential units, public art, and walkable spaces. The community now features an arts center that includes a theater, art gallery, and spaces for resident-led performances. The addition of walkable outdoor art trails and interactive sculptures has encouraged residents to stay active while exploring the grounds. John Knox Village is a perfect example of how art and wellness can be combined in senior housing. Learn more about this project on John Knox Village’s website.
Converting Former Hotels, Resorts, and College Campuses
One innovative trend in senior housing is the conversion of former hotels, resorts, and college campuses into walkable senior communities. These spaces are often ideally suited for senior living, as they typically include spacious common areas, amenities, and hospitality-driven layouts. Moreover, their locations near urban centers or in tranquil settings can appeal to seniors looking for convenience or peaceful living environments.
1. The Henry, San Antonio, Texas
The Henry in San Antonio is a former hotel that was converted into a senior housing complex. The project has maintained the luxury feel of the original hotel, while adding new amenities such as art workshops, wellness programs, and music performances. Located near downtown San Antonio, it offers residents walkable access to shops, parks, and cultural events, contributing to a lifestyle of active aging.
2. Mirabella at ASU, Tempe, Arizona
A unique example of converting a college campus for senior living is Mirabella at ASU, located on the campus of Arizona State University. This community offers residents the chance to live in a walkable, intellectually stimulating environment where they can attend university classes, lectures, and performances. Art and music are woven into daily life, with residents participating in arts programs and enjoying access to university cultural resources. Learn more about this innovative project on the Mirabella at ASU website.
"By converting former hotels, resorts, and even college campuses into senior housing, we can create unique living environments that offer both walkability and cultural engagement," Waun explains. "These conversions are not just feasible—they’re some of the most exciting developments in senior living right now."
The Future of Senior Housing
As senior housing continues to evolve, it’s clear that the future will be built around walkable communities, rich with art, music, and cultural connections. By incorporating these elements into the physical and social fabric of senior living, developers can create vibrant, healthy environments where seniors can thrive. For Waun and DIRT Realty, the goal is clear: to continue exploring innovative solutions that meet the needs of today’s seniors while fostering a sense of purpose and joy.
"We’ve seen how art, music, and walkability can completely transform senior living spaces," Waun concludes. "At DIRT Realty, we’re committed to studying these trends and helping bring them to life in communities across the country. Placemaking isn’t just for cities—it’s for everyone, including our seniors."
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