News Designing Inclusive Retirement Communities Through the Resident Voice

Designing Inclusive Retirement Communities Through the Resident Voice

News

July 22, 2026

Following the 2025 success of The XX Factor, PRP and WiRL are proud to share the next phase of our research into what inclusive design truly means for the UK retirement living sector. 

Our latest project moves beyond surface-level assumptions to explore how shared amenity spaces and the public realm can better support independence and social connection. The core philosophy driving our new recommendations is "Inclusion without intrusion." We aim to design spaces that invite residents to be part of the community, while allowing them to observe and engage on their own terms.

 

The Resident Voice

We conducted a series of in-depth interviews across various retirement villages, focusing specifically on the experiences of female residents. Our research proves that when we design for the "average," we often overlook the specific needs of those who use these spaces the most.

 

Key Findings:

  • Gendered Experiences of Space: Our data shows that 54% of female residents are navigating health challenges, compared to 29% of men. This highlights a need for thoughtful design that anticipates these experiences. When we move beyond a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, we eliminate unnecessary hurdles and ensure our spaces are truly accessible and welcoming for everyone.
  • Acoustics as an Accessibility Priority: While the sector often focuses on ramps and door widths, we must account for the 37% of residents who use hearing aids. In large, echoey activity spaces, poor acoustics make it impossible for many to participate, creating an environment that feels isolating rather than inviting.
  • Reducing Physical Barriers: With 67% of residents using mobility aids, we are challenging designers to look closer at the physical effort required for daily tasks—from door weights to site topography. 
  • Bridging the Local Connection: While residents feel safe inside their villages, there is a clear disconnect with the outside world. With 51% of residents struggling to navigate the area beyond their village, we are calling for better site connectivity and integration with the surrounding neighbourhood.

 

These insights are now being translated into design strategies that prioritise both meaningful connection and personal autonomy. Guided by the resident’s perspective—"It’s inclusion without intrusion; you want to be part of the community, but you want your privacy too"—this research moves beyond standard industry practices.

Ultimately, designing with this level of care is a long-term investment. By designing spaces that adapt to the changing needs of residents, we help them stay in their homes longer, feeling supported and independent rather than out of place. We invite you to watch the short film below, which serves as a call to action for all of us to create environments that are truly supportive of those who live there.