Victor Perez-Amado, Vinaya Mani

Cities teem with diverse inhabitants, and the same urban backdrop can be experienced uniquely based on factors such as age and gender. Particularly for marginalized demographics like the elderly, the urban terrain can offer a distinctive social and physical setting. This project delves into how Toronto, a rapidly aging city, has evolved in terms of policies and institutional structures to support its elderly population.

 

Toronto, which is witnessing an increase in its elderly population, now has more senior citizens than individuals under 15. Areas predominantly consisting of single-family homes are projected to predominantly house those aged 65 and over in the forthcoming six years. Given the rising number of communities for seniors and public housing projects, it's crucial to re-evaluate the physical infrastructure and layout of these neighborhoods to be more accommodating to the elderly demographic.

 

Victor Perez-Amado seeks to introduce innovative housing models and urban design guidelines that cater to the needs of the aging population, especially focusing on marginalized groups like the elderly and LGBTQ seniors. He presents fresh legislative initiatives, policies, and even ground designs tailored for LGBTQ senior communities, anchoring his proposals on the idea of "chosen families."

 

- Victor Perez-Amado, an assistant professor at Toronto Metropolitan University's School of Urban and Regional Planning, previously served at the University of Toronto. Trained as an architect and urban designer, he boasts a distinguished academic background from Harvard University Graduate School of Design. Perez-Amado’s research delves into aging in place, the transformation of long-term care facilities, and multigenerational housing, especially in LGBTQ2S communities. His notable projects include Lathrop Communities and The Lexington Brookhaven. Additionally, he's known for interactive public installations like "Woggle Jungle" and "Cavalcade." Perez-Amado has received several awards, including The Harvard Clifford Wong Prize and an ASLA Honor Award.