RENOVATION / REPOSITIONING
The Admiral at the Lake
Located in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, just steps from Lake Michigan, The Admiral at the Lake is a senior living community with a proud legacy of serving residents for over 100 years. The goal of the 14,500-square-foot, multi-phase renovation was to breathe new life into aging public spaces—particularly the Waterfront Dining area, adjacent pre-function space, lobby, and key corridors—while elevating the resident experience, supporting staff operations, and embracing the unique character of the surrounding environment.
The design team approached the renovation with a clear intent: create refreshed, welcoming spaces that honor the community’s history while introducing practical, forward-thinking solutions. From the beginning, the team engaged closely with leadership, staff, and a highly involved resident committee of nearly 20 members. Their input directly shaped the outcome, ensuring the updates reflected the lifestyle and values of the people who live and work at The Admiral.
Reception Before | After
Lounge Before | After
Rather than opting for a full rebuild, the renovation strategically reused existing elements while introducing meaningful enhancements. This allowed for impactful transformation within a mindful budget. Finishes were selected for long-term performance and to reflect the calming influence of nearby Lake Michigan, with a natural, understated palette and layered materials that bring warmth and comfort to spaces.
In the community’s main lobby, strategic reuse of existing artwork and furniture helped maintain budget goals, while painted millwork, a brighter stone fireplace surround, and a new carpet inset create a refreshed focal point lounge. This warm, welcoming arrival space encourages conversation and provides a comfortable setting for both residents and visitors.
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.
Dining Before | After
Waterfront Dining was transformed into a bright, inviting destination. With panoramic lake views as a backdrop, the space now offers a variety of seating choices, sliding acoustic privacy screens, and a new wooden divider wall to limit direct views into the kitchen while adding warmth and visual interest. A major focus of the design was acoustics, as the original dining space struggled with excessive noise and echo. Acoustic wallcoverings soften ambient sound, decorative sliding panels provide flexible control of sound, light, and privacy, and overhead acoustic ceiling baffles reduce reverberation—creating a more peaceful and enjoyable dining atmosphere.
The pre-function space outside the main dining room was also completely reimagined. What was once a closet is now a cozy lounge with comfortable seating where residents can gather before meals. A larger, centrally located host stand supports wayfinding and operations, with built-in storage for menus, table lighting, centerpieces, and walkers, helping maintain a tidy and organized dining environment.
Designed to offer each member an elevated and engaged life, including the Elegant Palmer Library and Lobby.
Dining Before | After
Corridor updates visually connect these refreshed spaces, using cohesive finishes, updated lighting, and art to guide residents and guests through the community with improved wayfinding and aesthetic consistency.
The completed renovation has been met with enthusiasm from residents and staff alike. Initially unsure about the project, one resident who was a vocal skeptic expressed deep gratitude and pride after its completion. The Admiral at the Lake now features public spaces that function beautifully, foster connection, and reflect the spirit of a community with over a century of history.