Creating Spaces Designed Specifically for Adults with Special Needs: Q&A with Pure Architects

Over four years ago when Connie Lettinga first envisioned Coral Reef, Grand Rapids-based Pure Architects immediately wanted to get involved. The company is Coral Reef’s architect and interior designer, managing all the design aspects of the project. 

To give you some more insight into Pure Architects and their role in Coral Reef, we sat down with Aaron Taylor, the Director of Design.

Q: What excites you about the Coral Reef project?

A: We are most excited about creating a thriving community that supports and enhances the daily lives of the building’s residents. Many of the prospective residents we’ve met will have their first opportunity to live as independent young adults, away from home, in this community.

Q: Can you discuss the importance of end user design for this project?

A: As a design studio, we are focused on designing for the users and communities that inhabit our design solutions. We adopt empathic design practices that require us to deeply understand and respond to users' needs and desires. 

This project in particular is fundamentally about its users. Creating a home for the unique needs and perspectives of Coral Reef residents will require careful consideration for the operational criteria, program opportunities, and physical, psychological and environmental needs. The diversity of individual needs is a significant design challenge and deserves an approach that supports, nurtures and empowers the well-being of every visitor and resident.

Q: What is one key vision you have for the Coral Reef project? 

A: We are extremely interested in connecting residents with the natural setting of the project site through welcoming exterior social spaces, access to regional trail networks and expansive views from residential units. Studies show the importance a connection to nature has on a person's overall well-being, and it is our vision to improve the quality of life of residents by making these strong connections

Q: What is the most important aspect of the Coral Reef project from Pure Architects’ point of view?

A: There are so many wonderful humans that we’ve been able to meet already that we hope will not just live in but thrive in Coral Reef. We’re honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the fulfillment of this shared vision; a special place that, through appropriate support from families, staff and each other, will allow for new experiences of indepence, belonging and community.

Coral Reef + Pure Architects: A Beautiful Partnership

Without talented, passionate professionals such as those who are part of Pure Architects, Coral Reef wouldn’t be possible. We are so thankful for our partnership with this company and know it will play an instrumental role in our success. For more information and project updates, please visit liveatcoralreef.com.