The Oaks at Algonquin
The Oaks at Algonquin opened in January in Algonquin, Ill., with 90 independent living units, 52 assisted living units, and 24 memory care units.
The 179,720-square-foot community features a clean, modern design. This is expressed by larger windows with less ornamentation; thin, elegant trim profiles; and a simplified color and material palette. For this minimalist design to still feel residential, special attention was paid to the proportions and materiality of every detail.
Contemporary architecture resonates with senior residents
Spectrum Retirement Communities engaged Vessel Architecture & Design (Creve Coeur, Mo.) to focus on replicating suburban living experiences. Their key insight was that residents would enjoy contemporary architecture that looks and feels elevated.
The design team created special nooks and elevated overlooks where residents can socialize and observe simultaneously, as well as transition experiences from indoor to outdoor to make the outdoors feel more accessible and integrated with everyday life.
How to create an elevated senior living dining experience
So, instead of a traditional dining room, an entire “night-out” restaurant experience was created by breaking down larger venues into more intimate and varied places to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This allows residents to craft their eating experience and accompanying social interactions differently each day.
The use of natural light throughout the building coupled with modern finishes like light fixtures, large format flooring, and exposed ductwork in select areas evokes a contemporary lifestyle.
The community features communal spaces including two restaurants, a health center, a salon, a theater, outdoor areas, and activity rooms such as an art space and a game room.
Project details for The Oaks at Algonquin
Location: Algonquin, Ill.
Completion date: January 2022
Owner: Spectrum Retirement Communities LLC
Total building area: 179,720 sq. ft.
Total construction cost: $29 million
Cost/sq. ft.: $162.70
Architecture firm: Vessel Architecture & Design
Interior design: Spectrum Retirement Communities LLC
General contractor: McShane Construction
Engineering: J & M Engineering, McShane Construction Design/Build
Builder: McShane Construction
