What was once an abandoned and partially demolished brownfield in a master development, the team saw an opportunity to re-envision a four-acre block for a senior living development, Clarendale Six Corners, in the Portage Park neighborhood of Northwest Chicago, Illinois. Clarendale Six Corners is a 10-story senior living urban community featuring 258 units, 18,000 square feet of ground floor retail and parking, and 21,000 square feet of amenity space. Social engagement and celebration of urban culture are at the core of Clarendale Six Corners’ design vision to bring residents a continued sense of activity, belonging and home. All common space programs are focused on building a sense of community and establishing a sense of both inclusion and independence.
On the interiors, organic elements are balanced with lush textures and warm wood tones for timeless ease. Hints of cultural flavor and historical layering create a sense of charm and authenticity.
Embracing the parameters of the tight, V-shaped site, the dynamic triangular design paired with a high-rise model strengthens the residential experience by shortening walking distances to amenity spaces, enabling independent and assisted residents to intermix on upper floors and encouraging vertical circulation.
Outdoor amenities are programmatically paired with indoor spaces to allow for multifunctionality.
Common space amenities are focused on building community and establishing a sense of inclusion and independence. From the gathering spaces that host social and community events to smaller, intimate spaces, such as the theatre room and living rooms.
Amenity-rich spaces are strengthened by the building’s unique triangular shape. Common areas are grouped by program and dispersed across multiple levels in the high-rise model to decrease walking distances and encourage resident exploration and gathering.
At the amenity terraces and green roof, drought-tolerant perennials were also the focus, along with a vibrant diversity of colors and textures for resident engagement and delight. Evergreens and an artificial turf lawn were included as well to reduce the need for irrigation and ensure green space was visible to inward-facing resident units all year long.
Historic artifacts salvaged from the original site’s structure (a former bank) are displayed throughout the amenity spaces, creating engaging spaces to entice residents to explore.
Large high-performance windows showcase urban skyline views and bring in natural light while limiting exterior noise pollution.
The open floor plan of the dining and lounge spaces allows for flexible use and helps build community through casual encounters.
The home-like environment of the memory care neighborhoods promote resident self-confidence, purpose, and engagement within a safe and comfortable setting. Central dining, living and patio spaces are provided for each neighborhood.