Unassisted Living, by Wid Chapman and Jeffrey P. Rosenfeld (The Monacelli Press, 239 pages) $50
AS the baby boom generation moves towards retirement, many are rethinking what their housing needs are going to be.
Mindful of their independent natures, architects and designers are coming up with interesting new approaches to functional living spaces.
Some of these concepts are manifested in greener homes, while others are more community livingbased. There are increased expectations for what these homes will provide in terms of multi-functional design. The new home will provide space for activities as well as all the necessary traditional rooms.
The authors have interviewed 25 homeowners to gain some insight into boomers' plans. They have also examined 33 homes that range from single-family dwellings, to townhouses, apartments and getaway cottages. These homes are presented in beautiful colour photographs, site plans and descriptions.
The homes defy conventional thinking in many cases as they include dramatic staircases, floor to ceiling windows, on-property studios and cottages. They are as unique as the generation that now seeks them out.
Chapman and Rosenfeld acknowledge this book is about a section of the boomers - affluent, active and engaged in their futures - but its ambition for a home that reflects the best of retirement is something we can all relate to.
