I recently attended an event where real estate agents discussed our present housing conditions with legislators. Some local leaders noted the increasing number of potential home buyers who are single individuals and an even larger number with no children, even if they are coupled. Statistics were shared to contribute to what seemed like a case for building more condos, apartments, and starter homes.
I’ll be real with you: I’m part of the demographic they were talking about–and many of my contacts are too. What I hope becomes central to the discussion on housing is designing such buildings and city planning to integrate how we dream of living. That starts with listening to us describe that dream. Without getting to know me, a builder might assume I just need a 1-2 bed apartment unit with some windows to get by.
Regardless of lifestyle or income, I wish for myself and my neighbors to live well, not just get by.
A socially conscious architect would learn that I want to garden and need to walk to maintain my health. They would discover I host family and large community gatherings. They would also find I dream of becoming a parent, while I also imagine needing space to take care of my aging family members or siblings in need. I’m interested in housing developments that seek, listen, and accommodate the dreams of where we want to be and how we dream of living. It is possible to make as much of it into a reality now rather than telling us the dream has to wait until “retirement.”
Ron Molen, well known mid-century modern architect from our very own Salt Lake City, designed with this social mindfulness over 60 years ago. In creating the 160 home neighborhood of Westshire in West Valley back in 1962, Molen visualized how an entire life could be played out within the indoor and outdoor spaces on each lot. True to the cherished elements of mid-century modern homes, the interiors feel spacious and bright largely due to the floor to ceiling windows. Not to mention the open air atriums, high ceilings, sunken living rooms, and the fireplace that makes a statement. Thinking more on the daily life of each resident, Molen designs go on to add hidden nooks and ample deck or patio space to encourage gathering in nature.
Molen is still involved in encouraging socially conscious design in Salt Lake architecture. He has written a number of articles for the Salt Lake Tribune. Discussing recent apartment projects, Molen voiced how incorporating parks or interaction with flora and fauna is vital for physical and mental health. “In the current artificial, digital world that often consumes too much of a person’s time, a daily walk through many interconnected parks would help one reconnect with nature’s imprint on who and what we are.”
Perhaps this care for life and community, non-profit work, painting, and swimming is what keeps Ron Molen 96 years young. You can find neighborhoods designed by this notable architect in Westshire in West Valley and Cottonwood Heights. Homes like this don’t always become available for sale, but we work hard to stay in the know. Check back next week to see what we’ve uncovered!
