A Welcoming Space for All Seniors
When the Rockland Council on Aging, in conjunction with the Rockland Housing Foundation, wanted to expand the programming offered through the Rockland Senior Center and make the space accessible for all who wanted to use its services, they turned to our design team to make it happen.
Working within a tight budget, our team conducted the initial feasibility study for the project and was subsequently selected to provide full design services for the new facility. Located on a site near town center businesses and adjacent to a recreational walking path, the new Senior Center creates a healthy space for all seniors—including those with disabilities—to enjoy an enriched social life.
Location
Rockland, MA
Client
Rockland Council on Aging
Size / Area
9,200 SF
New Programs and Amenities Double Attendance
The new center provides numerous welcoming, accessible, and flexible spaces, including an inviting entry foyer and reception with adjacent living room, administrative offices, nurse’s room, hair salon, and fitness studio. Bright and airy classrooms can accommodate more than 40 programs and activities, from computer classes to art instruction, providing new opportunities for seniors to connect with one another.
A large, central multi-purpose space divides two gathering rooms. The largest gatherings utilize the full space and can overflow onto the adjacent patio and landscaped yard when the weather is nice. Since opening, the building has become a significant landmark in the area and the center has seen a doubling of attendance.
“Everybody who comes here and sees the building says ‘Wow, you guys did it right.’ And that really falls on Studio G. They asked all the right questions to make this happen.”
– Peggy Bryan, Director, Council on Aging
Efficient and Healthy
The energy-efficient building envelope, systems, and durable, low-maintenance materials reduce operation costs. High indoor environmental quality is ensured by using appropriate interior materials that promote the health and well-being of seniors. A large commercial kitchen overseen by a professional chef provides a training venue for students from North River Collaborative Vocational Culinary Arts Program, where they prepare daily lunches for seniors as well as Meals-on-Wheels. We are delighted to have provided a new space for all Rockland seniors to come together to learn, play, and connect.
