The influx of baby boomers into retirement age is making senior housing one of the biggest market segments in the industry. In January, the Seniors Housing Council of the National Association of Home Builders presented the "Best of Seniors Housing Design" awards in Orlando, Fla. This award program honors communities across the country that best meet the needs of senior homeowners.

Among the recognized projects was Fleet Landing, a "life-care" community for adults 62 and older in Atlantic Beach, Fla. The community won a Silver Award for the interiors of its two-bedroom model home merchandised by Sisler Johnston Interior Design of Jacksonville. The design firm chose a nautical theme to echo Fleet Landing's seaside location and showed upgrades such as wood floors and faux stone tile.

The 14 judges applauded the way the colors and décor of the home appealed to the target market and the manner in which furnishings and accessories reflected their desired lifestyle.

Each year the Seniors Housing Council of the National Association of Home Builders sponsors the awards competition. For more information, call 800-368-5242, ext., 8220.