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Category: Behind the Scenes

Element of the Month: Artwork in Building

Annie Lascoe, Director of Development, appreciates the ability artwork has to “transform a house into a home” as well as create a sense of belonging in the community.

Element of the Month: Focus Group

This month’s Element of the Month is brought to you by one of our allies and close architectural partners, Anne Riggs of David Baker Architects. An element that has been crucial for her work are Focus Groups which involve people with disabilities sharing insight and feedback before the design process even begins. She talks about the importance of involving end users from the very beginning to ensure an inclusive product.

Element of the Month: Pedestrian Safety

This month, one of our dynamic Summer Analysts, Sandra Conley, talks about how her previous injuries now make her prioritize safety and navigability of spaces. Her element of choice is Pedestrian Safety which ensures that pedestrian paths are not only always distinctively marked but also strategically placed adjacent to vehicular ways and passenger loading zones. Whether providing safety to residents or ensuring that the building is visitable for guests, Pedestrian Safety provides the additional benefits of safety for everyone and ultimately a more beautiful, better-designed space.

The Kelsey & Urban Institute launch: Disability-Forward Housing Future – A Needs Definition and Case for Impact

The Kelsey partners with Urban Institute on a project entitled: Disability-Forward Housing Future – A Needs Definition and Case for Impact. The research will serve as a blueprint for what existing data tells us, what further research may be needed, and the broad-based policy solutions to meet the need. At key milestones, this project is being guided by a pilot Community Advisory Board, which you can learn more about in this post.

Video: Breaking ground in San Jose

A video recap of groundbreaking at The Kelsey Ayer Station in San Jose. Featuring remarks from Mayor Sam Liccardo, funding partners, and our Community Advisory Group.

Element of the Month: Path Slopes

This month’s Element of the Month, from The Kelsey’s amazing Summer Analysts, Michelle Eastman, whose central access needs are mobility and height. Her element, Path Slopes, is an example of a design choice with additional benefits.  An alternative to ramps or stairs, her element of choice creates comfort and ease of navigation in maneuvering spaces. Path Slopes don’t only support mobility and vision accessibility but also improve safety for all residents and guests.