An Integrative Approach to Designing Homes for the Future

Join ASID January 13th 2026 for Designing Homes for the Future:

This course explores how demographic trends, wellness principles, and universal design strategies can shape residential environments that prioritize health and safety for an aging population. As the aged population grows and lifestyles evolve, housing must adapt to support autonomy, accessibility, and resilience. Participants will examine the intersection of wellness-focused adaptations, sustainable design, and future-proofing methods to create homes that enhance physical and mental well-being, reduce environmental impact, and foster community cohesion. Through discussion of demographic data, political and social initiatives, universal design fundamentals, and real-world applications, attendees will gain actionable insights for designing future-ready homes that meet the needs of diverse occupants while promoting healthier, safer, and more inclusive communities.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Understand demographic trends and lifestyle impacts of an aging population
   Explore how shifting demographics influence housing needs, and identify design strategies that promote autonomy of choice, independence, safety, and well-being for older adults.
2. Explore principles of universal design and wellness-focused adaptations
   Learn how universal design principles and fundamental design modifications can support autonomy, accessibility, and holistic health in residential environments.
3. Review practical applications in residential design
   Analyze case studies and examples that demonstrate how integrative design approaches—combining sustainability, technology, and inclusivity—enhance occupant health and community welfare.
4. Discover the role of integrative design in promoting resilience and community well-being
   Understand how future-focused housing solutions reduce environmental impact, improve safety, and foster social equity, contributing to healthier, more resilient communities.

HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE JUSTIFICATION

Utilizing an integrative approach in the design of homes now can directly support the health, safety, and welfare of individuals and communities in the future. Private home environments can promote physical and mental well-being through the design of ergonomic and adaptive spaces, natural and artificial lighting, improved air quality, and universal accessibility features. In addition, reduced climate impact, greater energy efficiency, and inclusive design practices foster social equity and neighborhood cohesion for the welfare of the larger community. This kind of integrative design approach ensures that future housing will not only meet the functional and evolving needs of a rising aging population but also create environments that have the potential to nurture healthier lifestyles and grow stronger communities.

FEATURED SPEAKERS

Ruju Jasani | Founder, Jasani Studio
Ruju Jasani is founder of the San Francisco-based creative practice Jasani Studio, which merges thoughtful design with strategic research, developing interior and architectural works in the commercial and residential sectors. Ruju is a board member of ASID’s National Board of Directors and a Board Liaison for the Universal Design Committee.

Colin Alley, AIA | Principal, BCV Architecture + Interiors
Colin Alley is a Principal at BCV Architecture + Interiors, a 30+ person, bi-coastal, award-winning practice. He brings a refined balance of creativity and precision to high-end architecture and interior architecture projects, collaborating with designers and clients to deliver inspired social spaces across custom residential and hospitality commercial settings.

1 HSWLU Pending

Presented by ASID California Peninsula, ASID California North, AIA San Mateo County