Improving architecture for older Australians and those with disabilities

The challenges involved in improving architecture for the growing population of older Australians and those with disabilities form the basis of a new book Beyond Beige: improving architecture for older people and people with disabilities.

Edited by well-known architects Beverley Garlick, Diane Jones and Guy Luscombe, the book looks at key issues such as planning communities for an ageing population and recent trends in this sector; housing baby boomers; and designing new buildings for the mentally challenged. 

The book also questions ‘is the design of assisted aged care housing in Australia good enough?’, and offers inspiring examples of seniors-friendly projects in Australia and offshore.

The underlying theme for this important book is the provision of suitable environments for growth, learning, physical activity and creativity for all Australians – regardless of age or ability.

The book’s editors have drawn on their own expertise and that of a range of highly respected contributors to compile a range of articles that ‘discuss the many ways that the design of the built environment can, and must, contribute to the creation of socially sustainable and inclusive communities’ as our population ages.