RENOVATION / REPOSITIONING
Masonic Homes Adams Building Renovation
The Adams Building is a senior living residence on the Masonic Homes of California, Union City campus. Originally built in 1959 and remodeled in 1996, it was home to independent and assisted living residents. However, after 25 years, the building was in need of a modernization effort to reimagine a more connected and social living environment for residents. The building includes three floors of resident rooms, with a campus gathering hub on the ground floor. While this gathering area contained several activity spaces, including a computer room, activity room and bistro, they were all separate and inhibited the opportunity for larger group socialization. On the resident floors there were no common gathering spaces to facilitate a sense of community and encourage resident interaction.
This renovation is an excellent example of how an existing building can be revamped to have a more intentional purpose as it relates to the campus as a whole. It is not uncommon for building uses to change as resident and staff needs evolve over time. The design team was able to capitalize on the existing architecture of the building to make it feel new and purposeful.
Community Room Before | After
Library Before | After
The building renovation’s intention was to appear modern and inviting, yet practical, with distinct colors and patterns to assist wayfinding efforts. The use of natural colors, luxurious fabric textures, and an abundance of woodwork creates a peaceful and appealing home.
The temperate California climate also encourages an indoor/outdoor lifestyle, inspiring our members to enjoy
outdoor dining and lounging next to the fireplace in our courtyard.
Corridor Before | After
The brick veneer exterior is now more visually aligned with nearby structures, while still modernized. The interior is integrated with the adjoining resident dining hall and mail area so that natural socialization can take place.
Designed to offer each member an elevated and engaged life, including the Elegant Palmer Library and Lobby.
Dining Before | After
Aside from open dining and living areas on the three resident floors, the ground floor is where residents enjoy a modern, open great room and bar, library, media room and billiards room to serve the entire campus community. French doors and floor to ceiling windows connect this room to the outside.