Christine Soma to Speak at MREJ Senior Housing Summit

Wednesday, September 17th, 2025

Christine Soma, Principal at Pope Design Group, will join a panel to discuss The Future of Senior Housing Design at the MREJ Senior Housing Summit on October 1, 2025.

Christine joins a panel of five other senior housing experts to discuss The Future of Senior Housing Design. This forward-looking panel will explore how innovative design strategies are reshaping the senior housing landscape. Experts will discuss a wide range of topics including the value of engaging operators early in the design process to boost ROI and emerging wellness-focused principles that improve resident health and quality of life. The conversation will highlight how smart technology is being integrated to create more personalized, engaging living experiences, while sustainable practices help reduce both emissions and operating costs. Panelists will also address the challenges and opportunities of retrofitting older communities to accommodate modern technology, as well as cost-efficient approaches that make senior living more affordable without sacrificing quality. The panel will be moderated by Stacy Femling, Regional Assisted Living Director – New Development, Ebenezer.

Christine Soma, AIA, is a Principal, Architect and Project Manager on Pope Design Group’s housing team and has been with the firm for 11 years. She has over 17 years of experience and has developed a reputation for understanding the sensitive and unique design needs of each of her clients. Christine has served on the SAGE National Board and is a regular presenter at national and local conferences.

The 19th Annual Minnesota Real Estate Journal Senior Housing Summit will be held on October 1, 2025 at The Club at Golden Valley.