Erin K

I chose to go on the field trip to the East Lake Commons, throughout my time there, a lot of things caught my eye on how the co-housing communities are designed. It was not at all what I was expecting it to be, which is why I was glad I chose to go.  Every house build in in the East Lakes Commons had accessibility for everyone. Every house there had an entrance with no stairs. This was great for the people who cannot walk very well and for people who are in where chairs. The way the homes where designed, made it very accessibly for everyone.  Not only was the door ways easy to get threw but also, the hallways.

The activity of the environment was very high. The kids were all outside playing with one another, as well as, the adults talking and getting to know each other. To me, it seems like a very relaxing and safe environment to raise a family in. The houses are very close together making it a little hard to have privacy. If you are a shy and quite person then, the East Lake Commons is not the place for you. The houses do not have driveways in front of them, forcing you to have to walk to your house and giving you the chance to mingle with others. The sociality of the residents was very active in this community. Just from being there for an hour, I saw the interaction with a few of the residents. Just to get to the houses you will most likely run in to someone outside.

The comfort level to me was perfect. I loved how no matter what disability someone has you may still have them over in your house without making them uncomfortable. I love having people over, and having a place where everyone is welcomed is a nice thing. Also, the bathrooms are big enough for people in wheel chairs making it comfortable for them to go right in and use the bathroom. Once inside the houses, there is not much crowding. I would say outside is pretty crowded, since the houses are so close together. That would be the only down fall I have to say about this place. I like more of my personal space. 

I feel that the environment has a high adaptability level for people of all ages. There was a spot for all the residents to have their own little garden, which I thought was pretty cool. Also, for the kids there is an area for them to ride bikes and draw picture with chalk on the sidewalks.

Over all I had a wonderful experience and the people were all very friendly, especially our tour guide. I thought she had great pride and meaning behind what she does, and what she did for these people. For her being able to build a community that’s accessibly for everyone, is a big goal to fill. I never really thought to think how hard it is for people in wheel chairs to socially interact. Most house these days have stairs leading up to them. This visit was an eye opener for me, and I am glad I got the change to experience it.