Designing for Dignity:

PLACE Landscape Architecture's Role in Riverview Retirement Community’s Vision for Senior Living

Riverview Retirement Community in Spokane, Washington, is embarking on a transformative $42 million project—The Heights, an 82-unit independent living facility designed to meet the evolving needs of seniors. Scheduled to open in spring 2028, this development reflects a growing demand for expansive, amenity-rich senior housing. Central to this initiative is PLACE Landscape Architecture, a Spokane-based firm renowned for crafting sustainable and experiential landscapes across the Pacific Northwest.

The above rendering shows preliminary design plans for Riverview Retirement Community's proposed 82-unit independent-living facility. | Wattenbarger Architecture Inc. PS

Integrating Nature and Community

The Heights will be strategically situated on Riverview's 35-acre campus, nestled between the existing Terrace Apartments and the state-of-the-art fitness and aquatics center. This location offers residents seamless access to a resistance pool, lap pool, therapy pool, hot tub, indoor walking track, and exercise studio. Covered walkways will connect The Heights to these facilities, as well as to the Veranda memory-care facility, fostering a cohesive and accessible community environment.

PLACE Landscape Architecture's design approach emphasizes the creation of outdoor spaces that promote physical activity, social interaction, and mental well-being. By integrating the new facility with existing amenities through thoughtfully designed landscapes, PLACE ensures that residents can easily navigate and enjoy the full spectrum of Riverview's offerings.

Enhancing Quality of Life Through Design

The Heights will feature a mix of one-bedroom units with dens, two-bedroom units, and two-bedroom units with dens, ranging from approximately 1,100 to 1,800 square feet. The main floor will host communal spaces, including a restaurant, bistro, bar, and a 200-seat auditorium, all designed to encourage social engagement among residents.

PLACE's landscape design will complement these indoor amenities by providing outdoor areas that support a variety of activities and gatherings. Their expertise in creating environments that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal ensures that outdoor spaces will be both inviting and conducive to the needs of senior residents.

Commitment to Sustainable and Experiential Landscapes

PLACE Landscape Architecture is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that enhance outdoor environments.Their portfolio includes a range of projects that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

In the context of The Heights, PLACE's design will not only focus on the immediate needs of residents but also consider the long-term sustainability of the landscape. This includes selecting native plant species, implementing efficient irrigation systems, and designing spaces that require minimal maintenance while providing maximum benefit to the community.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Riverview Retirement Community and PLACE Landscape Architecture exemplifies the critical role that thoughtful landscape design plays in senior living environments. By creating outdoor spaces that are accessible, engaging, and sustainable, PLACE contributes significantly to the overall well-being and quality of life for residents at The Heights.

As the project progresses, it will serve as a model for how integrated landscape architecture can enhance senior living communities, fostering environments where residents can thrive physically, socially, and emotionally.

For more information on PLACE Landscape Architecture and their projects, visit place-la.com.