THW Design

The new single-story, 32-bed Memory Care building at Westminster Oaks was strategically placed within the existing community and includes two distinct “neighborhoods,” a full-service kitchen, controlled-access, enhanced outdoor memory garden courtyard with interactive opportunities, varied seating environments, and gathering spaces that include an outdoor kitchen and gazebo. Westminster Oaks boasts a unique and innovative partnership of research and learning with Florida State University Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, keeping residents, families, and staff eternally young at heart, while being inspiration for students and teachers.

The design created two equal neighborhoods to provide ample meandering opportunities for Memory Care residents, all surrounding a memory care courtyard. This relationship with the courtyard allows natural light and connection to the outdoors.

Another important owner-driven challenge was maximizing unit efficiency and space allocation to keep costs down to target middle market residents, providing required clearances for ADA and best care practices, and creating an inviting, comfortable interior.

The neighborhoods were created by each having a dedicated country kitchen dining room and living room, which acts as the heart of each neighborhood – adjacent but separated and overlooking the memory care courtyard. Each neighborhood has lounge areas nestled amongst the corridors, avoiding long stretches, that are broken up with window seats and pockets of seating. In addition to providing natural light and visual cues, these areas provide for social interaction. The design is intended to reflect the residential scale and provide more home-like environment for the resident.

Lifestyle amenities throughout the community embrace mind, body, and spirit to the fullest and accommodate the natural rhythms of daily living, including a well-equipped beauty salon, private dining room, central bath, chapel, country kitchen dining room with chef-led dining experiences, and living rooms where social connectivity activities are hosted—such as cooking demonstrations and aroma therapy, and outdoor activities within the secure memory care garden courtyard. Westminster Oaks utilizes iN2L software and equipment to support resident engagement at the new memory care building. This highly effective technology allows residents to expand their universe beyond the walls of the new neighborhoods while connecting with staff and family members.