The Inclusive Design Standards equip designers, builders, and developers with guidelines and frameworks for disability-forward housing creation. It highlights cross-disability accessibility and design decisions that are anchored in inclusion. Each month we feature one of our partners and the Element they’re most excited about.
Kristina Cardenas | Senior Inclusion Concierge | The Kelsey
Hiring the very first Inclusion Concierge feels like the realization of a long-held dream. The Kelsey Ayer Station, in the heart of downtown San Jose, is opening soon and we are delighted to welcome Senior Inclusion Concierge, Kristina Cardenas. She brings a wealth of customer service and hospitality experience, which makes her ideal to be the face of The Kelsey at Ayer Station. True to her new role, Kristina chose “Resident Programs and Events” as a meaningful element. She describes this element as “an enriching opportunity for residents to connect with their neighbors and create a wonderful interdependent community.”
Name of Element: Resident Programs and Events (6.4)
Description: Ongoing building events and activities.
- In-person events, art activations, and non-traditional partnerships
- Regular opportunities for residents to connect with one another and the surrounding community members who live nearby and include them in processes to promote civic trust and strengthen a sense of community
Design Category: Operations & Amenities
Impact Area(s): Health & Wellness, Cognitive Access, Support Needs
Additional Benefit(s): Beauty & Better Design
Why is this element important to you, personally or for the project?
This element is an enriching opportunity for residents to connect with their neighbors and create a wonderful interdependent community. Inclusive housing has many important physical components, but what’s at the heart of it all is bringing people together through common interests and shared joy. Hosting thoughtful programming at an apartment building will allow room for residents to foster a sense of belonging and build their Circles of Support.
How would you explain this element to a 2nd grader?
Based on the hobbies, interests, learning opportunities, etc. of the residents in a building, you can create events that allow time for people to connect with one another. It can be scary living by yourself for the first time, or living in a new city. Spending intentional time getting to know your neighbors is a great way to make that transition!
What recommendations would you make to someone designing a disability-forward housing project (related to the design standards)?
Getting to know your residents’ interests can guide the direction you go with your programming and events. Think outside the box – the opportunities for what events you host can be full of creativity without necessarily an excess of resources.
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