The Burnham Family Memory Care Residence at Avery Heights

The Burnham Family Memory Care Residence at Avery Heights is a transformation of a former 10,000 sf independent living wing into a secure 20-unit assisted living neighborhood for seniors suffering from dementia. 25% of the interior space is dedicated to a day-lit social living/dining/kitchen space with access to an expansive outdoor patio and garden. Interior features include a fireplace, sitting area, country kitchen, two private Activity Rooms, a large communal dining table, and more private two and four person tables.

The interior finishes and lights are designed to provide a familiar warm sense of home while compensating for deteriorating eyesight in older adults with higher levels of light and contrasting floor-to-wall surfaces. The outdoor space includes a large patio for socializing, a meandering walking path for exercise, and garden gazebo for reflection and rest. Plants are a carefully selected mixture of native species that offer a variety of textures, colors, and scents to stimulate the senses.

Awards

Boston Society of Architects / AIA – Healthcare Facilities Design Award
Contract Magazine Healthcare Environment Awards – Long Term Memory Care
CREW CT Blue Ribbon Awards – Best in Class – Healthcare
IIDA New England Award – Best Senior Living
IIDA New England Award – Best in Connecticut
AIA National Design for Aging Published Project
IIDA Healthcare Award – Extended Care & Assisted Living Facilities

Not in a million years could I have imagined such an amazing redesign in a 26-year-old facility. It is a dream come true.

Bill Englehart
Director, Avery Heights

Location: Hartford, CT
Size: 10,000 sf
Status: Built 2017

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