Dining Options in Senior Living

In working with dozens of senior living communities across the country, we have a good feel for what residents and management desire. One of the popular interior senior living design trends is the dining room. This should be no surprise as many residents and prospective families always take interest in the dining experience.

This client photo is a good representation of current dining design trends. In the back left corner is a snack kiosk, and there are dining tables inside and outside of the main dining room (in rear of photo).

As interior designers, we recognize that the dining perception goes beyond the actual food, and it is heavily influenced by the experience. This means caring planning of the location, furniture, lighting, decorations, layout, space planning and other interior architectural considerations that most people only notice subconsciously.

Another client project that saw a once lifeless lobby transformed into a lively cafe area for residents.

Personal care homes, assisted living and memory care communities are provided their residents with more options. This means expanding the number of dining locations in different wings, areas and floors of the building. The subtle change of eating in different areas provides a variety and spontaneity to the resident that they otherwise would not have. Even communities that lack space can do this implementing design “tricks” to make different areas of a large dining room feel like a different and unique space. It also includes setting up tables and service in the lobby area, commons areas and even on outside patios. Giving the residents freedom to choose where they want to eat provides for an overall, more pleasurable dining experience.

The other aspect of the dining trend is the casual, on-demand café, coffee bar or snack bar. Many communities are now offering a mini-market style kiosk that has everything from fresh fruit to ready made sandwiches to a variety of drinks. This allows residents to snack on their time and encourages residents to interact. Again, this is another option that puts the decision power in the hands of residents.

For more ideas about renovating or designing your senior living interior, call DesignPoint. DesignPoint has a portfolio of senior living projects across the country. If you are renovating or building a new senior living or skilled nursing community, call DesignPoint to ensure excellence in your interior design at 610-807-9670. See the see a sample of our senior living portfolio at http://designpoint-interiors.com/.