In the heart of Espírito Santo, a pressing question is reshaping the landscape of urban living: how can vertical housing better serve the growing population of young retirees? Isabela Costa Bazzarella, a researcher from Universidade Vila Velha’s Programa de Pós-Graduação em Arquitetura e Cidade, has delved into this very query, publishing her findings in the journal ‘Oculum Ensaios’ (translated to English as ‘Oculum Essays’).
Bazzarella’s research, focused on the cities of Vitória and Vila Velha, reveals a clear trend: young retirees, aged between 60 and 79, are seeking more than just a place to live. They’re looking for communities that cater to their active lifestyles and specific needs. “They prioritize buildings close to shops, services, leisure spaces, and even pet gardens,” Bazzarella explains. “They want physical doormen, elevators, and communal areas that foster socialization and security.”
The implications for the construction and real estate sectors are significant. Bazzarella’s findings suggest that developers should reconsider their approach to vertical housing. “Parameters of quality linked to urban scale, building implantation, and the housing unit itself must be considered,” she asserts. This means rethinking not just the layout of individual apartments, but also the broader urban context in which these buildings are situated.
One of the most compelling findings is the emphasis young retirees place on comfort. “Adequate sizing of wet areas and thermal-acoustic comfort were highlighted,” Bazzarella notes. This suggests that developers who invest in these features may gain a competitive edge in the market.
The research also underscores the importance of socialization. Young retirees are not looking to withdraw from society; rather, they’re seeking communities where they can engage with others. This could open up new opportunities for developers to create communal spaces that foster interaction and build a sense of community.
As the population ages, these findings will become increasingly relevant. Bazzarella’s research provides a roadmap for developers and urban planners looking to create housing solutions that truly meet the needs of this growing demographic. By prioritizing comfort, socialization, and urban context, developers can create buildings that are not just places to live, but vibrant communities that support active, healthy aging.
In the words of Bazzarella, “Adequações arquitetônicas e urbanísticas precisam ser incorporadas ao padrão do mercado imobiliário local.” (Architectural and urbanistic adaptations need to be incorporated into the local real estate market standard.) As the population continues to age, those who heed this call may find themselves at the forefront of a new wave of urban living.