Older LGBTQ+ individuals have often lived through decades of repression, many without the support of children or extended families. Studies show that 65% of LGBTQ+ seniors live alone — a stark contrast to 15% of heterosexual seniors under 70. Suicide rates among them are 2–7 times higher. The Maison de la Diversité aims to counter this isolation with a safe, inclusive, and supportive living environment.
Inclusive and Intergenerational
Primarily designed for those over 55, the home also reserves one unit
for a student resident to promote cross-generational exchange. The goal
is to build a community rooted in mutual respect and solidarity.
Community-Driven Design
The 680 m² residence spans five stories and houses 16 apartments (T1
and T2), each accessible via elevator and connected by outdoor walkways.
In addition to private units, residents share 120 m² of communal space
and a 200 m² garden — fostering daily interaction and companionship. Charter of Shared Values
All residents agree to a charter emphasizing LGBTQ+ values, inclusion,
and cooperation. While LGBTQ+ people are the primary focus, the home is
also open to allies who support its mission.
Design & Comfort
Primarily designed for those over 55, the home also reserves one unit for a student resident to promote cross-generational exchange. The goal is to build a community rooted in mutual respect and solidarity.
Community-Driven Design
The 680 m² residence spans five stories and houses 16 apartments (T1 and T2), each accessible via elevator and connected by outdoor walkways. In addition to private units, residents share 120 m² of communal space and a 200 m² garden — fostering daily interaction and companionship.
All residents agree to a charter emphasizing LGBTQ+ values, inclusion, and cooperation. While LGBTQ+ people are the primary focus, the home is also open to allies who support its mission.
The building is fully accessible and constructed using hemp-based materials, targeting high environmental standards.
Functional Living Spaces
It features 9 units at intermediate rent and 7 at subsidized social rates, with apartments ranging from 24 to 42 m², each equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, and living/sleeping areas.
Shared Amenities
The residence includes activity rooms, a laundry area, guest accommodations, a bike garage, and a garden, all designed to support healthy aging and social connection.
A Community Effort
First proposed in 2022, the project received unanimous support from
Lyon’s city council. Construction began in mid-2023 and is slated for
completion by late 2024 or early 2025.
Broad Support Network
Backers include the City of Lyon, Métropole de Lyon, Croix-Rouge Habitat, and nonprofit Les Audacieuses & Les Audacieux. Mayor Grégory Doucet called the project a reflection of Lyon’s commitment to inclusivity and human dignity.
Scalable Model
Organizers hope this pioneering project will be just the beginning, with plans to establish 10 similar retirement homes across France over the next decade.
Voices from Within
Christophe Dercamp, general coordinator, describes the home as “a cocoon... a bubble of kindness, mutual aid, and solidarity between generations and neighbours.”
One future resident, François, told LyonMag:
“I could leave home wearing glitter — I know I’ll be safe.”
While LGBTQ+-focused senior housing exists in countries like the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, Maison de la Diversité is a first for France. Lyon’s initiative could inspire similar projects in cities such as Paris, Marseille, Nice, Bordeaux, and Nantes, which are reportedly considering their own LGBTQ+ senior residences.
Looking Ahead
Set to open at 65 rue de Belfort, the Maison de la Diversité is more than a housing complex — it’s a symbol of social progress and belonging. For LGBTQ+ seniors, it offers not just a home, but a place to live freely, authentically, and surrounded by community.
In Summary
Lyon’s Maison de la Diversité challenges the invisibility that too often accompanies aging within the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a place where dignity, safety, and joy converge — proving that you can grow old and still sparkle on your own terms.
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