Page 13 - C.A.L.L. #44 - Fall 2018

Over the course of our weekend retreat, the conversation took some radical turns. Initially, we

had imagined a series of neighbouring condos or other self-contained units, but as we talked
further, we found ourselves more drawn to a truly shared space.

We realized, for example, that we want to eat dinner together more often than not. Most of us
like to cook, and we all love to eat. So a big common kitchen is essential. We like to discuss

stuff – just about any stuff – so we need places for conversation.

We have children and grandchildren, and love to entertain, so a guest suite is an obvious need.
A media room. A wine cellar! As the common areas became more central to our discussion, the

private areas became smaller. We now imagine each unit (person or couple) having private
space of about 600 square feet, designed to suit individual preferences. Naturally, everything
will be designed to accommodate “aging in place.”

At the end of the weekend, we had a three-page “proposal.” Confidently, we sent off a series of

e-mails to friends who we thought might be interested.

Crickets.

! 12