2025 Spring Lecture Series: Philippe Saad and Jovi Cruces

LGBTQ+ older adults have historically faced significant barriers to accessing safe, affordable, and community-affirming housing. This lecture will explore The Pryde, located in Hyde Park, Boston, MA, which stands as New England's first LGBTQ-affirming, income-restricted senior housing. Developed through a grassroots initiative, The Pryde represents a groundbreaking model of inclusive housing that not only addresses the unique needs of LGBTQ+ seniors but also fosters a welcoming, integrated residential community. The discussion will highlight the project's innovative approach to creating a supportive and affirming living environment, both physically and socially, for older LGBTQ+ individuals.

Join us in person at Cascieri Hall or virtually on January 14, 2025, at 6PM EST.

Philippe joined DiMella Shaffer in 2005 and has focused his career on the design and construction of community-based projects in the Senior Living and Multi-family Residential markets for all income levels. Believing that architecture is a tool for equity and social change, he is the co-founder of Project Q Communities and a founding member of LGBTQ Senior Housing Inc., two not-for-profits focusing on facilitating the development of housing for LGBTQ older adults. Philippe is also engaged locally in the Dorchester community where he volunteers in local neighborhood organizations, and at the Boston Society of Architects where he co-chairs the Design for Aging Committee.

Jovi Cruces is known for his beautiful napkin sketches and his willingness to sketch out a design idea on the fly. His history with architecture started in college after a study abroad experience opened his eyes to the history, language, and culture of design. He loves to design for sites at all scales but is most interested in projects that blur the line between the inside and outside. Jovi received his Bachelor of Arts from Haverford College and his Master of Architecture and Public Policy from Harvard University. Jovi has designed in all of our markets, most recently focusing on designs for the Senior Living market. He conquers Boston’s unreliable public transit and treacherous winters by commuting everywhere on his second pair of legs, his foldable bicycle.