TWIN OAKS ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY BEGINS CONSTRUCTION

On May 21, 2009 a groundbreaking ceremony will initiate a new senior living community in Wentzville, Mo. known as Twin Oaks at Heritage Pointe. The first phase is a two-story, 50 unit assisted living complex estimated at $4.6 million. Tim and Kathy Blattel of Heritage Pointe Partners lead the development team while Rosemann & Associates, P.C. is providing architecture and interior design.

Twin Oaks Assisted Living is part of a greater overall site which will eventually include multiple levels of long-term senior living options. Rosemann's design recreates the home environment for residents while providing a place in which the services they need will be easily available.

"One of the most difficult things for seniors is moving out of their own homes and into supportive living," explains senior living design expert Nancy Rodney, AIA. "Twin Oaks will allow St. Charles County seniors to remain nearby, close to family, friends and the history they've created, making this transition easier."

A large part of the design concept was ensuring residents' freedom of independence by providing a small kitchenette and private living area in each apartment. The design also offers residents multiple community living and dining options throughout the facility.

"With senior design, the key is to cater to a wide range of interests as well as abilities," says Rosemann's Andrew Koenig, AIA. "We've created an oversized, mall-like area on each floor that is flexible in use so residents can be creative with the space and utilize it for a number of activities."

The U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is assisting with funding and construction is scheduled for a March 2010 completion. Unit layouts include 10 one-bedroom apartments and 40 two-bedroom apartments with community amenities including a sunroom, salon, chapel, movie theater, fitness center and spa.

"With this project we want to maintain our philosophy of having a close, family atmosphere where residents feel valued and appreciated," says Tim Blattel. "Our success has been due to creating environments where residents can keep participating in daily tasks and social activities."

The groundbreaking will begin at 3:30 P.M. and is located at 250 Savannah Terrace, Wentzville, Mo. 63385. For more information contact Kim Bauer at 636.240.6152. Other project team members include contractor Gundaker Commercial Group, William Tao & Associates and Larson Engineering.