New senior living community evokes a sense of place and time in mid-town Ottawa
A new and vibrant retirement community, uniquely
designed to evoke a sense of place and time, will open soon in mid-town Ottawa’s charming village of Hintonburg.
Located at the corner of Wellington Street and Parkdale Avenue, this new senior-living community is at the heart of it all. Wellington
West Retirement Community is just steps away from boutiques, restaurants, hospitals, clinics, and churches.
“The Wellington West Retirement Community presents an intimate, boutiquestyle community designed to create meaningful relationships not only between residents, but with family and team members,” says Linda Meek, executive director of Wellington West Retirement.
Inside and out, design elements reflect the neighborhood while paying homage to the history of Ottawa’s premier places, cultural connections, and artistic heritage.
According to director of design, Victoria Lucas, the décor and architecture draws on ‘Interpretive Placemaking,’ which stirs memories, builds connections, and brings a sense of the familiar. This inspirational reimagining of place and space helps the community fit seamlessly into its historic surroundings.
Three anchoring elements, influenced by Confederation Hall, Rideau Hall, and the Parliamentary Restaurant, have been woven into the interior to reflect unique moments in history.
“Interpreting specific design elements from these buildings means finding a balance between evoking something special while creating a contemporary building that speaks to our time. It is also about being sensitive and reflective of those to whom we are providing a service,” says Lucas.
Inspired by Confederation Hall, a modern rendering of the striking central column and fan vault is a foundational component of the Welcome Lounge. Known affectionately as The Tree, the floor-toceiling stained wood column is surrounded by vibrant yellow banquette seating. It’s the central meeting place for residents and their guests.
The second element is the Parliamentary Restaurant, which has been transposed to the formal dining room. It reflects Ottawa through an interpretive expression of cityscapes using a variety of textures and colours.
The third anchoring element is Rideau Hall’s Tent Room. Its incomparable wall and ceiling coverings mean a visit to this iconic space is an awe-inspiring experience. Characteristics
of this room have brought the private dining area to life. “Imagine hosting a celebration dinner for eight-to-10 of your closest friends and family in such a space. There will never be another quite like this in its intimacy and playfulness,” Lucas says.
Art is an integral part of the Interpretive Placemaking experience at Wellington West Retirement Community. “Many of our residents will have travelled extensively across the country. As such, the artwork selected to adorn the building presents a living, breathing memory book for our community comprised of pieces created by Canadian artists, complemented with photographs of Canadian landscapes.”
The crown jewel of the collection is a colourful collage in the main lobby. Created by Ottawa based artist, An Nguyen, this stunning feature piece reflects the vibrancy, culture, and community of the Hintonburg
neighbourhood. Additional works from local artists provide interpretive perspectives on local landmarks, the
City of Ottawa, and iconic places across Canada.
Wellington West Retirement Community comprises 111 suites and two floors of recreation and dining space. Independent living includes alcoves, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. Special features include gourmet kitchenettes with quartz countertops, walk-in closets, balconies, and state-of-theart finishes.
The third floor offers assisted living studios that allow residents to age in place gracefully. An onsite health and wellness team builds customized care plans that meet the unique needs of each resident.
The management team and staff have been hand-selected for their passion and compassion, says Meek.
Linda Meek has 15 years of experience as an executive director in retirement communities in Ottawa. Known not only for the work she does within retirement communities, but also for her dedication as a volunteer. She has served as vice president of regional affairs for the Ontario Retirement Home Association’s Board of Directors and is currently an active member of the Council on Aging’s Board of Directors.
Also on staff is executive chef Jeffrey O’Brien, bringing his award-winning culinary skills to the table to create extraordinary dining experiences for residents and their guests. Director of care, Preet Tumber is a registered practical nurse who has spent more than a decade nursing in acute, long-term and palliative care, as well as geriatric rehab.
Making the transition to retirement living is a very personal decision, says Meek.
“It is important that each individual who lives with us feels a part of our family. Our intimate setting allows team members to truly get to know each resident and their extended family.”
Adds Meek, “Our community offers independence and empowerment in decision-making, peace of mind, a worry-free lifestyle, and a sense of place – not only for those who choose to reside with us but also for their families.”
The Wellington West Retirement Community presentation centre is now open and in person or virtual tours are available. Move-in is scheduled for 2021.