JAG  recently collaborated with longtime client Meta Housing Corporation to transform the common areas of Meta’s Burbank Senior Artists Colony. Since its grand opening in 2006, the Colony has garnered significant attention and numerous building awards, even inspiring the Urban Land Institute (ULI) — the world’s oldest and largest network of real estate and land use experts — to publish a case study on the project.

The Burbank Artists Colony renovation was a heartfelt endeavor for the JAG team, who bring extensive experience in designing spaces for seniors. The before-and-after images showcase their expertise and dedication to enhancing living environments in this rapidly growing sector.

Before-and-After Presentation

Situated just south of downtown Burbank, California, the project was partially funded by low-income housing tax credits, reserving 30 percent of its 141 one and two-bedroom apartments for those earning up to 50 percent of the area’s median income. Community amenities include a courtyard, pool and sun deck, recreation and media rooms, business and fitness centers, and a barbecue and picnic area. But that’s not all…

Artists Colony residents enjoy socializing in the Hollywood-themed clubhouse, performing in the theater, creating art in the studios, sharing stories and poetry in the writing classes, singing in the Colony Choir, and participating in “Lifelong Learning” lessons, like computer training and “Anti-Aging” exercises.

John Huskey, Meta’s Chairman and CEO, emphasizes the builder’s evolving approach to senior housing: “Development of today’s senior housing requires a completely different approach than that of generations past. Americans are living longer, healthier lives, and are in need of housing that will provide new opportunities to increase longevity and sustain good health.

“Drawing upon national research on how the arts can positively impact the health of older individuals,” continues Huskey, “we have designed each of our arts-focused senior apartment communities to include spaces where residents can participate in free, professional-level arts activities on an ongoing basis.”

To realize their vision, Meta partners with EngAGE, a non-profit dedicated to creative, healthy living. Tim Carpenter, founder of EngAGE, passionately advocates for “thriving while aging,” a philosophy that JAG whole-heartedly supports. In addition to their arts, wellness, and learning programs, EngAGE’s offerings are enriched by community-building activities, celebrations, and intergenerational connections.

READ MORE AT THE FOLLOWING LINKS

About Meta  Housing:
https://metahousing.com/about/

Burbank Artists Colony Amenities:
https://seniorartistscolony.com/amenities/

ULI Case Study:
https://casestudies.uli.org/burbank-senior-artists-colony-5/

Tim Carpenter on TED:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZx0xs6p3OI

EngAGE:
https://www.engageforlife.org/arts-colonies

Senior Housing News:
https://seniorhousingnews.com/2013/07/17/meta-housing-corp-completes-70-million-senior-artists-community/