Designing Senior Housing Landscapes That Residents Actually Use
Vista Del Monte, Santa Barbara
Great outdoor spaces can have a lasting impact on how people experience their everyday lives. In senior living communities, they offer opportunities to stay active, connect with others, and enjoy moments of peace in nature.
At McCullough Landscape Architecture, we believe the landscape is just as important as the buildings it surrounds. Thoughtful outdoor spaces can encourage residents to take a walk, meet with friends, spend time with family, or simply enjoy being outside. These everyday moments may seem small, but they play an important role in supporting health, independence, and overall well-being.
Our Principal Landscape Architect, David McCullough, ASLA, PLA, recently spoke with Connect CRE about the role landscape architecture plays in creating successful senior living communities. The conversation highlights how intentional design can help create places that feel welcoming, accessible, and connected to the people who use them.
One idea David shared speaks to the heart of our design philosophy:
"The more the space can be customized by residents, the more a space feels like it belongs to them, the more it will be used."
Wesley Palms, San Diego
Every community is different, but the goal is always the same. We want to create outdoor environments that people genuinely enjoy and that become part of their daily lives. Comfortable walking paths, shaded seating areas, gardens, and gathering spaces all help foster movement, conversation, and a stronger sense of community.
As more senior living communities focus on resident wellness, outdoor spaces have become an essential part of the experience. When designed with care, they help improve quality of life in ways that extend far beyond aesthetics.
We appreciate Connect CRE for including David in this conversation and helping bring attention to the value of landscape architecture in senior living design.
Read the full article to learn more about David's perspective and the importance of creating outdoor spaces that help communities thrive.