The Colonnade, Surprise, Arizona, Mesa, Arizona
Aiming to improve the overall dining experience for its residents, The Colonnade continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in Surprise, Ariz., set out to infuse new life into the main dining room, private dining room, and bistro.
The community’s former dining area featured outdated furnishings and a domed ceiling that amplified sound, making it difficult for residents to converse while sharing a meal. (Image credit: All “Before” photos courtesy of Thoma-Holec Design)
The goals for the project team, including Thoma-Holec Design (Mesa, Ariz.), which submitted the project to the 2024 EFA Remodel/Renovation Competition, were to modernize the environment and resolve ongoing noise issues.
Specifically, outdated furnishings including dark carpeting, heavy draperies, and ornate columns need to be updated. In addition, the original domed ceiling in the dining areas amplified distant sounds, thus making it difficult for residents to converse while dining.
The project team gathered feedback and involved residents throughout the design and construction process. The results earned the project the Gold Award in this year’s competition.
Dining renovation details at The Colonnade
The former bistro was outdated and did not support social engagement or contribute to an exceptional dining experience that the community sought to deliver. (Image credit: All “Before” photos courtesy of Thoma-Holec Design)
Expanding the dining area’s seating capacity to more than 300 people and incorporating modern design elements such as cove ceiling details, wall panels, and custom carpet significantly improved both the acoustics and aesthetic appeal.
A centrally located bar was added to serve as a focal point for staff and resident interaction and optimize operational efficiency. The main bistro and market now offer residents diverse dining options, from grab-and-go meals to spaces for meeting friends or family for a meal or quick bite.
Setting a modern interior design aesthetic
The project’s “New West” design aesthetic was chosen to reflect the Southwest region and includes a color palette of sand tones, muted yellow, and vibrant teal, complemented by rich medium-toned millwork.
Biophilic elements appropriate to the desert locale are also included, with organic shapes present in the selected art, custom carpet design, and divider panels.
One jury member praised the project as “transforming the dining experience” by encouraging socialization and engagement.
For more on the 2024 Remodel/Renovation awards, go here.
