The Woodlands at Canterfield exemplifies a successful partnership between a for-profit owner and a not-for-profit operator and demonstrates an ongoing commitment to elevating the assisted living (AL) and memory care (MC) experience. With the goal of creating a nurturing atmosphere in a refined and luxurious setting, the team implemented biophilic design principles and prioritized community integration, hospitality, and health and wellness. In an effort to “be a good neighbor” and respect the history of the land, the one-, two-, and three-story buildings were thoughtfully detailed and positioned on the nine-acre site to nestle into an existing residential neighborhood and leverage the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. By creating trail connections to a variety of onsite amenities and the larger community of West Dundee, The Woodlands promotes quality of life and a healthy lifestyle.
Paying homage to the tree farm and orchard previously on this site, the design team created a custom sculptural element positioned between the main lobby and the pub. Taking advantage of the ceiling height, this feature fills the two-story space and is illuminated at night. The line of sight is still open into the pub beyond the lobby providing visitors the opportunity to immediately see an active community while residents gather and use the space to enjoy the “comings and goings” activity of daily life.
Design details continue into the resident living areas, including a tree-themed sculptural element that is back-lit at the community’s AL and MC entrances.
Teco Pub
Located adjacent to the front lobby and main dining room, the pub is a hub of activity used throughout the day for spontaneous gatherings, pre-dining interactions, and programmed events such as happy hours and resident celebrations. The adjacent patio allows these activities to be moved outside in nice weather.
Milk Pail Bistro
Residents can choose to dine in the main/formal dining room or opt for a quick grab-and-go treat from the bistro.
The Pinkerton – Assisted Living Dining
A variety of seating and integrated design features help break down the scale of the space and control noise.
Memory Care Kitchen and Dining
With the goal of breaking down the scale of the dining area and providing a more intimate dining experience, a central two-sided fireplace was integrated into the plan. A large island where residents can choose to dine or interact with staff is a feature familiar to many and a hub of activity within the space. Ample natural light and access to the outdoor courtyard continues the theme of biophilic design.
Beyond first-rate care and attention, the community boasts amenities and features that make resident life more convenient and enjoyable, including concierge services, unique restaurants, a spa/salon, a fitness center, a reflection chapel, a theatre, a resort-quality terrace with comfortable seating and roaring hearths, bocce ball court, putting green, and a memory care courtyard.
Unlike many AL communities, The Woodlands offers a variety of unit styles including studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. The design also provides a variety of MC unit styles with studios, one-bedrooms and companion rooms.