When Mennonite Home Communities opened Woodcrest Villa in 1993, Nelson Kling, CEO, reflects on the types of questions prospective residents asked such as, “Do the kitchens have enough cabinets”, “Will the windows be large”, and “Will I control my own heat”. The face of retirement has certainly changed since then, as residents now ask about personal trainers on staff, what wellness programs are offered, and where can they host their card club, etc.
Better positioning themselves to meet the needs of today’s seniors, Woodcrest Villa stays ahead of the curve with the new VIVA Centre, a community, cultural and wellness center all wrapped into one stunning building, located literally in the center of the 130-acre campus. The VIVA Centre features uniquely designed spaces for performing arts, swimming, movies, eating, pampering, exercising and more, including a rooftop plaza that greatly expands the outdoor socializing and recreation options. When developing in the middle of an active community, care and thought must be given to how construction is staged, how new circulation routes are implemented, and how utility connections made all without interruption to the community or its residents. The entire project team took great care throughout the planning and preconstruction process to ensure a seamless transition into the construction phase.
