River Pointe

When someone declines in mental abilities, they need a home that is comfortable and nurturing over time. Familiarity is important. Any new transition creates trauma, which creates a downward slide in ability.

This project needed to replicate the feel of the client’s original home where he had lived the longest, by reproducing the amount of light in the residence, the configuration of the windows, the colors and the textures. By doing this, an instant sense of belonging and comfort is created.

Equally important is an easy-to-navigate layout. The entry, principal bedroom, bath, living room and kitchen are on one level. The caregiver has a separate entrance on the lower level, along with additional bedrooms and a den. Curbless entry doors and showers are built to be accessed by a wheelchair eventually. Showers have a thermostatic valve that reads ON and OFF in large text. The water temperature never needs to be readjusted after first use. Industrial grab bars can be replaced by other appropriate hardware with soft edges, depending on the home owner’s needs over time.

The access ramp is executed in materials that harmonize with the architecture and landscaping. Functionality is still beautiful.