In the fall of 2023, the Residential Redesign Design Connect team from Cornell University embarked on a project in partnership with Tioga Opportunities, Inc. (TOI) to revitalize the outdoor living spaces of TOI’s Long Meadow and Springview Apartments. These housing communities provide safe and affordable housing options to older adults aged sixty-two and older and individuals with disabilities. Through a comprehensive process involving research, site analysis, and resident engagement, the team developed two individualized landscape designs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The original proposal from TOI sought to transform outdated and under-utilized outdoor areas into vibrant parts of the community. Prioritizing the input of the residents, the team conducted in-person meetings and surveys to gather valuable feedback on desired amenities and key concerns such as safety, relaxation, and opportunities for socializing and activities.
The designs feature plans to transform the outdoor spaces into vibrant hubs of community, which will foster social interactions of activity and recreation, while also offering meaningful connections with nature for residents. “The project has been instrumental in revitalizing our housing communities through innovative upgrades that prioritize accessibility and comfort to support the diverse needs of our residents.” said Christina Brown, Director of Management and Administration. “This collaboration fosters a sense of pride and ownership among our residents, breaking down the stigma of affordable housing and empowering them to contribute to an inviting and inclusive living environment.”
Design Connect is a multidisciplinary, student-run community design organization within Cornell’s Department of City and Regional Planning. Its objective is to promote the mutual exchange of expertise and experiential learning between Cornell students and local municipalities and organizations, providing students with practical experience while offering low-cost, viable design and planning services to communities. This initiative exemplifies how student-community collaboration can create impactful and long-lasting improvements, turning outdoor spaces into vibrant and sustainable community hubs that will be enjoyed for years to come.
The first phase of work at Long Meadow Apartments began in early July marking the start of the transformative undertaking of these redesigned spaces. Click here to view the photo gallery: https://photos.app.goo.gl/VUyAPDcb1rRmajRbA
