Glen Mills 55+ Community Common Space

A great place for friends to meet at Glenn Mills.

Location: Glen Mills, PA

Designer Credits: Kathy McGroarty, CID, WFCP

Project Overview:

There were several challenges in the design of this 55+ community. The building was twelve years old with the original carpet in the hallways and common areas. The carpeting and the furniture in the seating areas were all showing wear and needed to be replaced.

The project included new carpeting throughout, new upholstered furniture, and new wall colors throughout. Many items such as the tables were to be re-purposed.

Kathy had to stay within a strict budget while at the same time giving these common areas a luxurious, updated look. The biggest challenge was working with a design committee, all with different ideas!

Glen Mills 55+ Community Common Space

Kathy worked with the Board and the Design Committee. It was decided to avoid the golds, reds, and greens of the previous design that were very traditional. A color palette with a strong presence of blue was  decided on to make the spaces feel fresh and updated.

Starting with the owner’s hallways Kathy selected a patterned neutral tan carpet. She then introduced blue floral rugs in the seating areas to give them the wow that was requested. Due to the safety of the residents, the “rugs” are part of the wall-to-wall carpeting to avoid tripping accidents. This is how changes in design are handled in any hospitality situation.

The walls were painted a light blue, and in contrast the trim and built-ins in the main seating area were painted a bright white with the wall behind the shelving in a darker blue.

Much of the upholstery was re-upholstered with new wood furniture, artwork, and accessories mixed in with the existing. Old and new blended well together for a cohesive look.

Kathy planned the layout of this community common space in smaller conversation areas, conducive to multiple conversations.

With tact and patience, Kathy pleased the board and committee with her updated design and came in under budget!