Whether you live in a warm or cool climate, there is something luxurious about having access to a pool. Today, a modern aquatic center is an amenity that expresses a community’s commitment to wellness. The decision to update or add a pool environment is not without its challenges.
We have been talking a lot lately about micro-strategies to creatively reposition existing campuses. In our eNews articles as well as presentations at LeadingAge Illinois and an upcoming LeadingAge Annual Meeting & EXPO IGNITE session, we share our thoughts on tackling “small-bite” projects one, $5-10 million expenditure at a time. We believe this is a viable alternative, a strategy that is the antithesis of New Greenfield “Big Gulp” projects.
One of the greatest challenges for community leaders and project teams is to keep existing residents happy during construction projects. From the moment planning starts, communication is critical. Keeping residents and their families informed minimizes the impact of the disruptions that come with construction projects. With the proper communication channels in place, the team can work together to strategically plan the best possible phasing for the project.
A variety of senior living and multifamily projects recently completed and on the boards have brought to our attention a growing trend in unit design – smaller apartments. For the senior population the decision to move to an Independent Living environment involves the willingness to part with their homes in exchange for a space that is more manageable in size, but in turn is connected to a variety of easily accessible amenities.
When it comes to wellness, today’s senior living communities are dealing with high expectations and competing with local health and fitness clubs. Residents want first class facilities, not just a basement room with an old treadmill or bike. What do your facilities say about your commitment to wellness? Is your fitness center keeping fit?
As architects and engineers, our challenge has always been to provide a residential environment all across the continuum of care, from Independent Living to Skilled Nursing. Several new light fixture designs are helping us meet that challenge while providing upgraded light levels.