Old and new
A bright youthfulness (and practical accessibility) creates a comfy home for aging in place
“We wanted a contemporary design with universal design standards, but we also wanted a lot of practical things in the unit to cater to an aging population.” So says Jack Pong, president and CEO of City Core Developments, discussing the model suite for Harmony Village Sheppard. The project is meant for residents looking to age in place, and was designed to showcase flexible and accessible features. The aesthetic is bright and modern, and subtle differences make the unit easy to manoeuvre through, even for those with mobility issues. “Easy access is very important in these designs — lowering light switches, raising electrical outlets, putting everything at accessible levels,” says Pong, who worked with designer Samantha Sannella on the suite. Units at the site range from 388 to 1,800 square feet and are priced from $181,500. The sales office is located at 3260 Sheppard Ave. E., Scarborough and open Monday to Thursday from noon to 6 p.m. and weekends from noon to 5 p.m. Call 416-493-0123 or visit harmonyvillage.ca.
1 Medium-toned walnut-hued floors “create a warmer look in the unit,” says Pong. The floors are laminate rather than wood, though, making maintenance easier — an important consideration for anyone getting around in the space using a walker or wheelchair.
2 “It gives a contemporary look to the suite,” Pong says of the kitchen cabinetry, which features a wood laminate finish with flat-front doors, strong vertical graining and grey undertones. White open shelving below creates contrast while picking up the tone of the white quartz countertops.
3 Custom designed for the suite by an industrial designer, this kitchen table can hydraulically move up or down, between counter and table height. “Flexibility is what we were trying to design for,” Pong says. A white quartz tabletop, meanwhile, ties it in with the kitchen countertop.
4Stainless steel appliances maintain a contemporary feel, while small modifications to the kitchen also make it accessible. The oven is lowered, so that it’s easily reachable without bending, while under-cabinet lighting keeps the kitchen bright – important, Pong says, “for older people who have trouble seeing.”
5 A built-in desk converts into a Murphy bed in the small den off the master bedroom — convenient for buyers who may have grandkids visiting. “A lot of buyers find that a very appealing option,” Pong says. The wood and white arborite design, meanwhile, matches the look of the kitchen.
6 To keep the master bedroom bright, a frostedglass door separates it from the den. “It keeps the light coming through from the exterior when you close off the doors,” Pong says. A yellow accent wall and light driftwood-toned furniture also keep the space bright and airy.