As an example, Kanjian points to “snore-and-more” rooms or double masters, which is a flanking den next to the main bedroom, are popular design elements. This, he says, can be used if couples wish to sleep in different rooms, as a getaway space, or even to host guests, which is particularly important in a resort setting for out-of-town visitors.

“Boomer kitchens aren't made for one person either,” Kanjian says. “Instead, they are designed for couples to work together.”

In all of AV Homes' active adult kitchens, the distance between the countertops to the island is four feet or four and a half feet, so those in wheelchairs can open the dishwasher or oven and still slide by comfortably. In an active adult bathroom, oversized showers are key, as it is easy to add in a bench or other accessories if needed.

“We're also seeing the desire for open-air designs with centrally located kitchens that provide easy access to living and dining rooms,” Kanjian says. “This allows for comfortable entertaining. In Solivita, every plan also has an outdoor kitchen option, and outside of the home, courtyards are typically in front so residents can truly be part of the community and interact with neighbors rather than being secluded in the rear of the home.”

MIAMI—What does it take to create master-planned communities that appeals to this generation? Bob Kanjian, director of sales for AV Homes, has some insights. In fact, his speaks of a term frequently used in the industry called the “forever home.” The question is, at what age do homebuyers typically find their “forever homes”?

According to a new study by National Association of Realtors' buyer/seller generational trends report, that age is after 52. And by age 70, nearly a quarter of homebuyers are purchasing a home in senior-related housing, which includes master-planned active adult communities. To help active adults find their forever home, Kanjian tells GlobeSt.com, homebuilders need to make sure they are getting their offerings right. (New trends are emerging in single-family home design.)

“Today's active adult communities are much different than the retirement neighborhoods of the past, and understanding what appeals to this generation is key to success,” Kanjian says. “As a builder of active adult communities, like Solivita in Kissimmee and Vitalia at Tradition in Port Saint Lucie, AV Homes focuses on the needs and wants of this demographic, making it more than just another community and rather a truly vibrant lifestyle. After all, this segment of homebuyers won't settle for anything less than resort-style amenities, flexibility in home design, and great opportunities for social interaction.

Kanjian points out as people age, their needs change, and an active adult community needs to offer homes grounded on adaptability. That's why home designs within AV communities work to bend and flex to meet current needs with future ones. (Will the new home market bust this year?)

As an example, Kanjian points to “snore-and-more” rooms or double masters, which is a flanking den next to the main bedroom, are popular design elements. This, he says, can be used if couples wish to sleep in different rooms, as a getaway space, or even to host guests, which is particularly important in a resort setting for out-of-town visitors.

“Boomer kitchens aren't made for one person either,” Kanjian says. “Instead, they are designed for couples to work together.”

In all of AV Homes' active adult kitchens, the distance between the countertops to the island is four feet or four and a half feet, so those in wheelchairs can open the dishwasher or oven and still slide by comfortably. In an active adult bathroom, oversized showers are key, as it is easy to add in a bench or other accessories if needed.

“We're also seeing the desire for open-air designs with centrally located kitchens that provide easy access to living and dining rooms,” Kanjian says. “This allows for comfortable entertaining. In Solivita, every plan also has an outdoor kitchen option, and outside of the home, courtyards are typically in front so residents can truly be part of the community and interact with neighbors rather than being secluded in the rear of the home.”