Kendal on Hudson identified the need to renovate its three-story common amenities and wellness building to better serve its existing residents and to meet the market expectations of future residents and their families. The existing building lacks a welcoming front entrance, contains outdated/daylight-deprived interior spaces with disjointed spatial flow, has a poor indoor-outdoor connection, and a missed opportunity to highlight one of its greatest assets – a panoramic view of the Hudson River and palisade cliffs of New Jersey.

Amenta Emma designed a comprehensive solution featuring a series of seamlessly connected daylit spaces that horizontally and vertically link a new welcoming lobby to a dining room and terrace with sweeping views of the River and Palisades. Renovated spaces include: a main level with lobby, auditorium, coffee shop, bistro, and formal dining: a community Level with community room, art center and offices: and wellness level with fitness spaces, exam rooms, physical therapy, locker rooms, a swimming pool, and a new three sided glass and timber framed pavilion with review views and access to a renovated terrace with yoga area, seating, and raised garden planters. The resident and visitor experience is elevated through evidence-based health and wellness design principles, including biophilic elements, warm natural materials, nature-inspired colors and patterns, daylight and views to the outdoors, updated mechanical systems for optimal thermal comfort, and enhanced acoustics. Through thoughtful planning, the renovations are phased and expedited to minimize disruption to the daily lives of residents through pre-ordered materials and the creation of swing spaces.

Upon completion, this transformative renovation will dramatically enhance Kendal on Hudson’s ability to attract new residents and enhance the day-to-day lives of its existing residents. The new entrance will establish a welcoming first impression that reflects the organization’s commitment to quality care, while the thoughtfully designed interior and exterior spaces will provide greater opportunities for resident socialization, wellness, and enrichment.