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Kristin Novak
Senior Interior Designer & Director, Pittsburgh OfficeRLPS ArchitectsKristin specializes in the planning and design of senior living environments that support resident well-being, engagement, and quality of life. As a Senior Interior Designer, she works with providers to create spaces that balance hospitality, wellness, accessibility, and operational needs while fostering meaningful social connections across generations. She is skilled at integrating interior design and architecture to create distinctive environments that reflect each community's setting, brand, and user experience. Kristin is NCIDQ-certified and enjoys mentoring emerging design professionals. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Fine Arts, Interior Design from George Washington University.
E03 – Beyond the Bridge: Designing for Intergenerational Connection in a University Retirement Community
University Retirement Communities promise lifelong learning, mentorship, and shared experiences across generations. But proximity alone does not creat…University Retirement Communities promise lifelong learning, mentorship, and shared experiences across generations. But proximity alone does not create meaningful interaction. Using Maryland's first formal University Retirement Community partnership…University Retirement Communities promise lifelong learning, mentorship, and shared experiences across generations. But proximity alone does not create meaningful interaction. Using Maryland's first formal University Retirement Community partnership between Edenwald and Goucher College as a case study, this session explores how architecture and interior design can intentionally foster intergenerational engagement while supporting the needs and e…University Retirement Communities promise lifelong learning, mentorship, and shared experiences across generations. But proximity alone does not create meaningful interaction. Using Maryland's first formal University Retirement Community partnership between Edenwald and Goucher College as a case study, this session explores how architecture and interior design can intentionally foster intergenerational engagement while supporting the needs and expectations of older adults. Presenters will share how input from residents, students, faculty, and leadership shaped the planning process; how common spaces were designed to encourage both planned and spontaneous interactions; and how design decisions balanced wellness, hospitality, academic culture, and residential comfort while creating opportunities for connection beyond the boundaries of a traditional senior living campus. The session will also examine lessons learned while creating a cohesive sense of place across two institutions with distinct cultures and missions. Attendees will gain practical strategies for designing "third places" that encourage social connection, support lifelong learning, and strengthen a sense of belonging. While focused on a University Retirement Community case study, attendees will discover design strategies that can support partnerships with universities, community organizations, and other mission-aligned institutions seeking to foster lifelong learning, social engagement, and purpose-driven experiences.Show MoreClick the title to see all detailsShow More
Mark BeggsPresident & CEO, Edenwald
Brent StebbinsPartner, RLPS Architects
Kristin NovakSenior Interior Designer & Director, Pittsburgh Office, RLPS Architects
Mark BeggsPresident & CEO, Edenwald
Brent StebbinsPartner, RLPS Architects
Kristin NovakSenior Interior Designer & Director, Pittsburgh Office, RLPS Architects
Allow Registration:No
Capacity Unlimited:No