Winner: Vineyard Lane

Developer, Up to 250 Units
By The Winery LLC
Bainbridge Island, Wash.
www.vineyardlane.com

This small community is quietly separated from the hustle and bustle of downtown Seattle but is still accessible by ferry. Part of its charm is its beautiful, natural setting. Within a short walk of the 45-condominium neighborhood are a coffeehouse, a medical clinic, two grocery stores, and restaurants. The development is a testament to green-building design and easy accessibility for all generations.

In each of the 45 units, extra-wide doors and hallways, level-front entrances, security grips in all washrooms, and extensive elevator access, among other features, help keep residents safe and comfortable.

Screened parking, oversized windows, and a lattice of well lit, paved walkways, maximize aesthetic integrity. The centrally located coffeehouse, the many public patios, and the strong ties with the town proper—all contribute to inclusive and eminently livable homes for people from all walks of life.

— By Roxana Hadadi & AARP staff