CCRC / LIFE PLAN NOMINEE

The Mather

The Mather is a unique, forward-thinking residential wellness destination designed to serve a younger, more diverse demographic than has traditionally been served in senior living, with wellness infused in every aspect of the design and program offering. The Mather was designed to meet the needs of Boomers by providing: opportunities for engagement, choice and flexibility, customized experiences, and a focus on environmental sustainability. Results are in – 75% of residents are Boomers or GenXers.

The Mather combines biophilic design, a commitment to environmental sustainability, and an engaged, connected lifestyle. Customized person-centric wellness experiences (which we call ContinuWellTM) are woven into the building design, program offerings, high-touch services, and amenity spaces.

City/State:
Tysons, VA
Date of Completion:
03/2024
Project Size (Sq. ft)
670,000 SF
Owner:
Mather
Operator:
Mather
Architect:
Solomon Cordwell Buenz
Interior Design Firm:
Bonnie Manson & Studio 1-2-1
Builder/Contractor:
Whiting Turner Contracting Company

Offerings include cutting-edge wellness amenities, (e.g., Spa Breath Lounge with halotherapy/zero gravity seating, infrared saunas, fitness studio with Pilates reformers); wellness technology, (e.g., percussive therapy, vibro-acoustic sound wave therapy bed, AI body composition analysis); collaboration with world-class organizations, (e.g., The Kennedy Center and Smithsonian Institution); and personalized wellness programs, (e.g., Qigong; sound bathing, mindfulness, aqua wellness experiences) – all which support a spirit of curiosity/inclusion/connection. Immersive sensory experiences utilize our 3-acre park providing opportunities to enhance well-being outdoors. Chef-prepared meals at multiple onsite restaurants offer diverse menus with organic, vegetarian, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, contributing to a healthy lifestyle.

The Mather is pre-certified LEED Gold and incorporates biophilic design to enhance physical and emotional well-being, focusing on natural light, connectedness to the outdoors, and use of natural materials. Floor to ceiling windows in amenity spaces/apartment homes bring the outdoors in, providing a sense of well-being. Our 3-acre park supports nature immersion with gardens, event lawn, walking paths, and beehives – one of our regenerative programs that supports wellness of our natural environment.

Amenity spaces reflect the cultural diversity that exists in the Washington metropolitan area, with names that focus on well-being in multiple languages – “Tashi” restaurant (Tibetan for “good fortune”), “Kokua” Health Centre (Hawaiian for “extending help without expecting anything in return”), “Sora” rooftop lounge (Japanese for “sky”).

Residents are invited to engage in global wellness practices, including Blue Zone concepts such as shojin ryori (five colors/five flavors); hara hachi bu (eating until you’re 80% full); mindful arts classes (Kintsugi and mandalas); and rituals of connection (“Bento and Banter”). Signature experiences such as our Sensory Symphony Swim (offered to staff and residents) combine live musicians, sound bowls, and meditation, while floating in our pool by candlelight. We offer intergenerational opportunities, including a musician-in-residence program, dance programs, and cultural festivals for friends and family members.

Proof of the success of our wellness culture is reflected by younger generations – Boomers and GenXers, and diverse older adults moving in. Our forward-thinking programs, rituals, and forms of expression are also attracting residents’ children who are joining in the experiences, reinforcing that these are the desires of the residents of tomorrow! The Mather is helping to change the narrative regarding senior living communities and those who live and work within them, helping recognize that senior living offers one of the best options for Aging Well.