Environments for Aging - Spring 2024 - 37

thoughtful arrangement acknowledges each
resident's individuality, recognizes that preferences
for social settings can vary daily, and empowers
residents to choose how they want to
experience and engage with their community.
Likewise, at Glenridge, The Kiltie's appeal is
designing today's social hubs. The height of the
bar and countertops is an important consideration,
as it significantly influences a resident's
ability to engage comfortably. Recognizing the diverse
physical needs and limitations within assisted
living and independent living communities,
designers must thoughtfully choose the height
of these design features. For example, designing
a bar at a standard table height of 30 feet or chair
seat height of 18 inches can make the interaction
and functionality of serving patrons (reaching
to serve food, drinks, etc.) difficult or awkward.
Glenridge on Palmer Ranch in Sarasota, Fla., offers
an example of how to solve this challenge.
The community was determined to have its
bar, The Kiltie, designed at standard height and
wanted the bartender and patrons to be at that
same level. In response, the design recesses the
bar, creating space to store equipment along the
back and front bar while enabling the bartender
to serve and converse with patrons with natural
ease at eye level.
Whether it's a standard seat height, as is the
case at The Kiltie, or counter- or bar-height
models, designers should work with clients
to evaluate each option for its aesthetic appeal
and inclusivity to create a welcoming atmosphere
where all residents can enjoy meaningful
interactions. Understanding who will
be patronizing the venue (ambulatory versus
non-ambulatory residents, family members,
visitors, etc.) can help guide decisions on furnishings
in these spaces. Discussions with
owners can be a helpful way to determine the
right solution and mix for a community. When
in doubt, it's key to remember that flexibility
in design and providing people with choice go
a long way in creating a successful and highly
utilized environment.
Catering to different needs
The growing popularity of bars and lounges also
presents a unique opportunity for creativity and
thematic exploration, allowing communities to
venture beyond a standard design ethos to create
a playful and experiential approach that offers
residents, their families, and guests a vibrant departure
from the everyday. Glenridge on Palmer
Ranch, for example, opted for an aesthetic that
became known as a " Scottish theme with a Florida
twist " to pay homage to the area's rich Scottish
history. As a nod to this theme, the design
team selected a custom plaid carpet pattern and
incorporated a display of tartan flags above the
bar to reinforce the theme.
Additionally, design approaches for social
spaces should prioritize flexibility and variety
to provide residents with a range of choices,
not only in seating arrangements but also in
the types of social interactions they can engage
in. Fred's Oasis in the Cypress Glen Retirement
Community, in Greenville, N.C., exemplifies this
approach by dividing a 3,000-square-foot area
into distinct zones, including a bar area that's
ideal for individuals or couples, communal tables
for larger groups, and traditional dining
setups with two and four-top arrangements.
Clusters of soft seating are strategically placed
both in quiet, intimate areas near the fireplace
and in livelier sections of the space. This
enhanced by its strategic integration into the
community's newly developed " theater district, "
which incorporates an art gallery for
showcasing a rotating display of local and resident
artwork, an expanded lobby, and gathering
space. These additions are positioned
adjacent to the existing performing arts center,
creating a multifaceted cultural hub. Residents
can plan an entire night out within their community-from
enjoying artistic performances
and movies to winding down with cocktails
and appetizers at The Kiltie. This cohesive design
reimagines the concept of community in a
way that not only meets the functional needs of
residents but significantly enriches their social
and cultural experiences. Since opening, the
community has noticed an increase in family
and guest visits as well as many commenting
positively about the community's inclusive and
non-traditional atmosphere.
Sense of belonging
During greenfield and renovation projects, the
focus on the physical needs of seniors can often
overshadow the equally important consideration
of their emotional and mental well-being.
As people age, their physical capabilities might
change but their habits, joys, and ways of connecting
with others often remain constant.
Well-designed bars and social areas can
help nurture social connections, celebrate the
spirit of community, and support the holistic
well-being of residents. This shift in senior living
design provides environments that are rich
in opportunities for residents to enjoy a socially
vibrant and emotionally rewarding lifestyle.
Kelley Hoffman, NCIDQ, is a senior partner and
leads RDG Planning & Design's senior living interiors
market (St. Louis) and can be reached at khoffman@
rdgusa.com.
spring 2024 | 37
ALISE O'BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Environments for Aging - Spring 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Environments for Aging - Spring 2024
