A New Wave of Home Construction: Catering to the 55+ Active Adult

As the 55+ demographic, predominantly 'baby boomers', continues to shape the homebuying market, it's important to delve deeper into the specific housing preferences that define this group. These preferences reflect the desire for comfort, convenience, and community in their living spaces, significantly influencing home construction trends throughout the Lowcountry. This demographic, often underestimated, is at the forefront of a notable change in housing trends, redefining what it means to design a home for those over the age of 50.

   
 

Harmonizing Design Across Generations

Today's 55+ homeowners often seek a blend of luxury and practicality in their living spaces. They prefer open-concept layouts with expansive kitchens and living areas, complemented by high-end finishes like hardwood floors, quartz countertops, and modern appliances. They also tend to prefer single level living or Owner’s Suites on the main level. Many in this age group are looking for homes without stairs to avoid mobility issues as they age. Bungalows are particularly popular, offering ease of movement and accessibility. These preferences align closely with those of younger generations, indicating a universal appeal in home design.

   
 

Community-Centric Living

Beyond the walls of their homes, active adult homebuyers value a vibrant community life. They look for neighborhoods that offer a mix of social and recreational amenities, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. This includes clubhouses, fitness centers, and spaces for social gatherings, aligning with their desire to maintain active, social lifestyles.

Horizons at Summers Corner is a new age restricted community for individuals aged 55 and over, located in Summerville, South Carolina. It's a part of the larger Summers Corner development, designed to provide a variety of resort-like amenities, such as a clubhouse featuring a fitness center, as well as options for retail and entertainment. Summers Corner also boasts numerous walking trails amidst parks and natural areas. Outdoor amenities include a resort-style pool with a large patio, picnic areas, fire pits, a dog park, and a playground appealing to visiting grandchildren. The community is interlaced with biking trails that navigate through numerous parks, natural areas, and scenic ponds, featuring a large fishing lake. Summers Corner also boasts a performing arts center, retail spaces, and the Corner House café.

Lennar initiated the construction of Horizons at Summers Corner in 2021, with plans to build single-family homes in three distinct collections: Cottage, Estates, and Legends. These homes, available in one- and two-story designs, range from 1,300 to 2,500 square feet and feature up to four bedrooms.

   
 

Life Balance

As many in this age group continue working past the traditional retirement age, there is a growing need for versatile spaces that accommodate both professional and personal needs. Homes are increasingly being designed with dedicated office and hobby spaces, allowing residents to seamlessly blend work and leisure. Charleston’s new home builders are pro-actively building flex space in many of their homes. Buyers at every price point will find thoughtfully planned options to meet their expectations.

Pulte’s Life-Tested Home Designs® provide practical spaces tailored to modern lifestyle needs. The Pulte Planning Center® is an innovative and multi-functional area that helps organize and manage busy schedules. Whether it's serving as a home office, a storage area for crafts, this adaptable workstation is designed to reduce clutter and enhance the efficiency within the home. Their "Everyday Entry" offers specific drop zones, perfect for bags, jackets, and daily essentials. And if it’s an escape you desire, many of Pulte's Owner’s Retreats feature flexible spaces that can be transformed into personal sanctuaries.

DRB Elevate’s new home designs are award-winning and nationally recognized for their unique Elevate Rooms that are not typically found in a traditional plan. Buyers can transform their living space into a reflection of their passions and pastimes. They offer a compact, efficient Pocket Office option tailored for productivity, and a dedicated Wine Room option for connoisseurs. For animal lovers, some buyers opt for a Pet Spa to pamper their furry friends. These are just a few possibilities that DRB Elevate offers to customize their home designs to help homebuyers tailor a plan that aligns with their unique interests and hobbies, creating a sanctuary that's truly their own.

     
 

Homes Design and Age-In-Place Features

The trend of designing age-in-place homes for active adults is gaining momentum in the home building industry, focusing on creating spaces that are both modern and accommodating to the evolving needs of older adults. These homes are ingeniously designed to offer ease of access and safety while maintaining a contemporary look. Features such as single-level layouts, wider doorways and spacious hallways are essential to facilitate mobility aid use. Safety in bathrooms is prioritized with walk-in showers, and the use of slip-resistant flooring throughout the home is a critical measure to minimize the risk of falls. Additionally, the incorporation of universal design elements is also a key aspect. This includes user-friendly features like lever door handles and touchless faucets.

Technological integration is a cornerstone of age-in-place homes, significantly boosting convenience and security. This encompasses innovative smart home technologies such as voice-activated systems, automated lighting, and remotely controlled security features.

   
 

Understanding Age-Restricted Communities

In recent years, the concept of living communities tailored to specific age groups has gained significant traction. Two prominent types of such communities are age-restricted and age-targeted communities. While they may sound similar, these two types of communities cater to distinct needs and preferences.

Age-restricted communities are designed specifically for older adults. These communities have legal age restrictions, typically requiring at least one resident to be 55 years or older. The focus here is on providing a peaceful, low-maintenance lifestyle that caters to those approaching retirement. Age-targeted communities, on the other hand, do not have legal age restrictions but are still designed to appeal to those 55+. They offer amenities and a lifestyle that attracts a mature demographic, yet they welcome residents of all ages. A key aspect of both community types is the focus on health and wellness. This is evident in the availability of fitness centers, wellness programs, and healthcare facilities within or near the communities.

     
 

Proximity to Services

As always, location is always key. Proximity to healthcare facilities, shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural attractions is highly valued among 55+ homebuyers. In Charleston, for example, many active adult communities are strategically located to provide easy access to healthcare services, shopping districts, and dining. This proximity not only offers convenience but also encourages an active, engaged lifestyle.

The Charleston area is home to several major hospitals and medical centers, including the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Roper St. Francis Healthcare, and Trident Health System. These facilities offer advanced medical care in various specialties, such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. The Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center also provides comprehensive healthcare services to veterans.
 
 

Allure of Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina, is a popular destination for baby boomers due to its historical charm, modern amenities, and dynamic real estate market. The city's rich history and vibrant arts scene offer cultural enrichment, while the mild climate and nearby beaches encourage outdoor activities. Charleston's housing market balances affordability with luxury, appealing to budget-conscious active adults. The low tax environment in South Carolina and access to quality healthcare also add to its attractiveness. Additionally, Charleston has a strong sense of community, with numerous activities and social groups for the 55+, fostering an engaging and fulfilling retirement life. 

 

The 55+ demographic is at the forefront of a new era in home design, one that emphasizes flexibility, community, and a blend of modern aesthetics with functional features. As they continue to challenge traditional notions of aging, their influence on the housing market is unmistakable, paving the way for homes that are as dynamic and diverse as their residents.


View 55+ Communities


 
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