DC North Shore

Apartment Design at Discovery Commons in Glendale, WI

Written by DC North Shore | Jul 7, 2025 4:00:00 AM

By 2030, Wisconsin's population of adults aged 75 and older is expected to rise by 41 percent, according to Forward Analytics. This growing group of older adults needs homes that do more than provide shelter-they must support well-being, safety, and independence as people age.

Discovery Commons North Shore, located in Glendale just minutes from downtown Milwaukee and Estabrook Park, offers apartment homes tailored to meet the daily needs of older adults. The community's apartment design balances comfort with practical features that promote accessibility and social connection.

Keep reading to learn how good home design supports healthy aging and what to expect from senior living apartments in Glendale.

How Design Affects Senior Well-Being

Older adults tend to spend more time at home, which means the layout and features of that home have a direct impact on their mental and physical health. According to the National Institutes of Health, age-friendly housing can:

  • Reduce the risk of falls
  • Support assisted living
  • Ease daily stress

Apartment design that minimizes barriers and encourages movement can help seniors maintain daily routines longer. Elements such as walk-in showers, wide doorways, and slip-resistant flooring are essential.

Key Elements of Aging-Friendly Housing

Homes built or renovated for older adults include a wide range of thoughtful assisted living design choices. These features reduce fall risks and make life easier as mobility changes. Discovery Commons North Shore reflects these priorities in its floor plans and community areas.

Single-Level Living

Climbing stairs becomes more difficult with age. Most aging-friendly housing is built on one level to prevent injuries and make every room easy to reach. Apartments at Discovery Commons North Shore are designed for step-free access throughout the space.

Wide Doorways and Hallways

Many seniors use walkers or wheelchairs. That means narrow spaces can become obstacles. Apartment layouts that include wide paths allow for smooth, safe navigation in every room.

Walk-In Showers and Grab Bars

Bathrooms are a common site of injury for older adults. Accessible bathrooms often include roll-in showers, sturdy grab bars, and non-slip tile flooring to create a safer environment. These elements are standard in quality senior apartment layouts.

Ease of Mobility

Non-slip flooring, lever-style door handles, and low-threshold entrances remove common obstacles found in traditional housing. These elements help seniors move around safely with or without mobility aids.

Apartment Design That Feels Like Home

Good design isn't just about safety; seniors want apartments that feel inviting and private. That's why assisted living communities like Discovery Commons North Shore prioritize open floor plans and quiet, peaceful surroundings.

Ample Natural Light

Large windows, skylights, and light wall colors brighten spaces and boost mood. Research shows that exposure to daylight improves sleep and reduces depression symptoms in older adults.

Private Bedrooms and Bathrooms

Maintaining a sense of personal space is important for dignity and mental health. Apartments typically include private bedrooms and full bathrooms, even in shared assisted living or memory care settings.

Simple, Open Layouts

Complex or cluttered floor plans can lead to confusion or falls. In contrast, open-concept layouts make it easier to navigate and reduce stress, especially for those with mild cognitive impairment.

Special Considerations for Memory Care

Memory support apartments are designed to assist residents with cognitive challenges such as Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia. In these units, memory care features are intentional, supporting calm routines and reducing confusion.

Consistent Flooring and Clear Paths

Transitions in flooring color or texture can confuse residents with memory loss. Uniform surfaces and simple, straight paths make movement more intuitive and reduce anxiety.

Minimal Visual Clutter

Too much decor or visual stimulation can overwhelm memory care residents. Simple design and neutral colors support better focus and comfort.

Secure Environments with Freedom

Memory care layouts include safe, enclosed spaces where residents can walk freely without getting lost or putting themselves at risk. These designs balance independence with protection.

Community Amenities That Complement the Apartments

In assisted living, smart apartment design supports residents' ability to make their own decisions while staying safe. Layouts are created to minimize reliance on staff while maximizing comfort and convenience.

Discovery Commons North Shore in Glendale offers more than well-designed apartments. The community includes shared spaces that encourage social interaction and learning. These features play a major role in promoting active aging.

Residents enjoy access to:

  • An art studio
  • Bistro and bar
  • Silver Spring Theatre
  • Full fitness center
  • Walking paths
  • The Glen Library and Technology Center
  • On-site salon and spa

These amenities support physical and emotional health. Learn more about what makes this community unique by exploring their exclusive programs.

Flexible and Accessible Senior Floor Plans

The best accessible senior floor plans blend form with function. Discovery Commons North Shore offers a range of layouts to suit different preferences and care needs, all while promoting independence.

Studio and One-Bedroom Options

Compact yet comfortable, these apartment types offer privacy without overwhelming space. Ideal for residents who value simplicity and ease of cleaning.

Multiple Closets and Storage Spaces

Having ample storage helps residents keep their items organized and out of walkways. Many apartments are designed with built-in storage to reduce tripping hazards and clutter.

Emergency Response Features

All apartments come equipped with 24/7 emergency call systems. These systems allow residents to get help quickly without having to move far or reach a phone.

The Role of Design in Assisted Living Success

Apartment design plays a big role in long-term success in assisted living. Well-designed spaces allow residents to stay independent longer, with less stress and fewer accidents.

In fact, research shows that home design impacts quality of life and cognitive health. That's why communities like Discovery Commons North Shore put such a strong focus on thoughtful apartment planning.

Choose Discovery Commons North Shore

Located in Glendale, WI, this community combines smart apartment design with engaging social spaces and helpful support services. Residents enjoy freedom and a better quality of life thanks to well-planned floor layouts and accessibility features.

With a rising population of older adults in Wisconsin, it is more important than ever to find homes that fit changing needs. Discovery Commons North Shore meets that need with floor plans that promote independence and safety.

If you'd like to learn more about senior living in Glendale, contact us today to explore apartment options or schedule a tour.