This topic caught my attention and interested in other architects foray into this area professionally or persoanally.
The term compound has taken on a negative connotation for many with cmedia coverage of cults and armed assaults, so I generally lean towards extended family as a term somewhat isolated from the architectural image of a compound and associated stigma. In the US I expect the aging boomer population will lead to more and more ways to creatively incorporate housing space into the current residential framework. Suburbia and rural residential present priime opportunities for re-assessing the notion of "single family" as two generations.
We had the opportunity to spend a year in West Africa and were intrigued and delighted by the constant exposure to the elders playing with the toddlers in the courtyard while the matrons worked together on family meals and laundry. Often a festive mood with some music, singing and family pets about...an image quite different from many senior housing warehouses in the US.
We also had the experience of extended visits from parents blessed with health into their nineties. In the later years it was challenging to understand, accept and support the changes in capability and needs, as the roles reversed for child and parent in the care-giver and care-receiver roles.
Architectural design to improve accessibility equally serves all ages, so simply navigating in and around the home is better for grandma and grandpa, mom and pop, the kids and spouses and the grandkids.
Spatial design that allows a place for quiet time and rest is also universal. We all need a place to escape. The difference is the ease of supervision for this retreat required for the various generations for safety and security.
Recognizing and accepting the potential contributions of the elders for simple household chores and child care is great for all concerned, maintaining a much needed sense of purpose for the elders, bringing joy to their life while providing service to their hosts. This is not an insignificant impact on the family finances when current child-care costs are factored into the equation.
Architectural economy can be mapped at the building, neighborhood, city, state or national level. Maximizing underutilized space in "outgrown" residences and reducing construction demands for transitional residences for elders has significant environmental and economic implications. Think up after starting at the project scale, where one building footprint, envelope, mechanical system, set of utility connections and expenses and life experiences can be shared between mom and pop and the extended family.
I am sure there are barriers to overcome which vary by geography and jurisdiction. Open minded discussions with home owners, politicians and code officials, developers, builders and remodelers can present some excellent design opportunities, social experiences and architecture to help expand senior living options in America.
Just a few thoughts,
Robert Saxler, AIA, LEED AP
MN Architect with family in Madison, Boston and NYC...but open to changing that as time rolls on