The Maples
It is clear that there are inherent problems in two of the largest forms of housing currently available for seniors. The Assisted Living concept and the Stay Put practice are what are commonly available and used by seniors who are faced with the difficult decision of how to adjust to a time of life that doesn not allow them to stay in their homes as currently configured.
The Assisted Living model, though offering a lifestyle with companions and round the clock care if necessary is a) extremely expensive and excludes many from the best quality facilities, b) clinical in a way that offers a sterile environment that barely resembles the familiar existence of their own home and c) usually located far from the town of their friends and family.
The Stay at Home model forces people to make large and costly alterations to their homes that both displace them and when completed are usually not perfect solutions to their future needs.
The Maples project will borrow from the positive aspects of both options; a sort of hybrid that does not solve all the problems of senior living but approaches them with practical solutions.
The units housed in the completely renovated Maples Inn and the brand new garage barn structures are apartments designed with seniors in mind. Embracing American Disability Assoc. standards, the apartments will have wide doorways, bathrooms that allow for easy access to showers, simplified security systems, one floor living, and elevator access to 2nd and 3rd floors. The project will have a livein caretaker who will be available to take care of simple needs of the residents as well as provide a security presence. We are looking into the possibility of having a concierge service on an “on demand” basis. This person would be able to book everything from doctor’s appointments to restaurant reservations.
An additional aspect of the project that might answer the needs of seniors would be to have some kind of public gathering and dining space in the Roger Sherman Inn. Adjacent to the Maples, it has a dining room and bar as well as rooms for rent that could potentially house guests or families visiting Maples residents. The dining room and bar would provide the dining and gathering aspect of assisted living that seniors enjoy.
The apartments, located on three floors of the main building as well as over the garage barn are designed for simple compact living in a luxury environment. Large traditional moldings, wide board plank floor, custom built cabinetry, state of the art efficient appliances, top of the line plumbing fixtures and beautiful tiles are all included in these on floor two bedroom (8 out of 11) apartments. In addition they provide dining and living space, large closets and gas fireplaces. The top two floors are accessed by a large cherry paneled elevator. Each unit is wired for Internet, stereo, TV and security.
The grounds outside will contain a new flower and produce garden maintained by the caretaker and provide an outdoor activity for those that want to partake, as well as a serene landscape to enjoy. The unique location is “walk to town” and across from the Nature Center.
An association will be set up to oversee the property with a paid manager to free the owners of the chore of running the property. The units can be customized for those who commit early in the process. Units can also be combined to allow for greater space.
Each unit will have its own storage space in the basement with its own private security in each. A washer and dryer will also be supplied in each unit. The building will be served with a complete sprinkler system.
The garage building will provide under cover garage parking for one car for each apartment. If units were combined then they would have two spaces. Additional parking will be provided in the half circle out front.
This project is unique in that it offers the safety and comfort of a private home in a luxury environment with a walk to town location. This model, I believe, will be very well received by the community with initial responses confirming that premise.
