Artist Biography
Keri Smith Holian is a career changer currently completing her final year in the Master of Interior Architecture program at Endicott College. Her interest in design grew over years of renovating and building homes and decorating for family and friends, and she formally returned to school to pursue professional training after raising two children, one of whom has autism.
Before pursuing design, Keri spent over a decade in political consulting and public affairs, working in fast-paced environments that demanded attention to detail, organization, and communication with a wide range of stakeholders. She has managed large budgets, coordinated with policymakers and community members, and worked under pressure – skills she now brings to her design practice. From 1993 to 2001, Keri held various roles in political consulting, including traveling for a year with a presidential campaign, managing one of the most highly targeted congressional campaigns in the country, contributing to a presidential inauguration, and working at U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
Her current work focuses on inclusive, supportive environments, particularly housing models for adults with autism.
Thesis Abstract
This thesis addresses the urgent housing needs of adults with autism spectrum disorder (“ASD”) who can live semi–independently but would benefit from housing that fosters community and belonging. It proposes a new housing model designed to reduce social isolation and depression for people with lower functioning Level 1 and higher functioning Level 2 autism diagnoses. This model takes inspiration from senior living communities, where the private sector currently builds housing to reduce social isolation for a different demographic. The research outlines how communal spaces, therapeutic environments, and adaptable designs can mitigate ASD symptoms and improve quality of life. Drawing from literature, precedent studies, site visits, and expert interviews, this thesis highlights how senior living community design strategies—focused on socialization and wellness—can be adapted for the autism community to reduce social isolation. This thesis provides a comprehensive program and design framework, creating a blueprint that not only addresses the urgent housing crisis but will be provided to the private sector to meet the growing housing needs for this demographic.