The Arbor at Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
A thoughtfully designed new Assisted Living and Memory Care home for seniors in Berkeley’s Poet’s Corner neighborhood
The Arbor at Berkeley, formerly Elegance Berkeley, is a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (“RCFE”) located in the Poet’s Corner neighborhood of West Berkeley. The four-story market-rate senior living community offers 96 units in a mix of 77 studios, 12 one-bedroom, and seven two-bedroom suites for independent living, assisted living, and memory care. On the ground floor, a sophisticated lobby welcomes residents, and a living room, casual bistro, and large dining room/restaurant surround the community’s main courtyard.
The second floor is dedicated to memory care and provides two neighborhoods of residential units and engagement stations, including a music room and sensory relaxation room. A group dining area and demonstration kitchen provide an exciting opportunity for residents to watch their meals being prepared. Large windows allow sunlight to illuminate the space and lead to a generously sized landscaped deck.
The ground floor is designed to encourage community engagement and includes 3,200 square-feet of retail space. Additional amenities include an arts & crafts center, beauty salon, fitness room, theater, massage suite, outdoor grill area, and a cozy fourth-floor lounge with views towards the San Francisco Bay.
Casual seating arrangements and a variety of lounges dot the ground floor, where residents can socialize and relax.
Project Specs
Location: Berkeley, CA
Client/Owner: Spirit Living Group & Capital Health Group
Size: 96 units | 83,343 square feet
Sustainability: GreenPoint Rated Gold
Photographer: David Wakely
Project Team
General Contractor: S. Builders
Structure: Superstructure
Civil: Franco Civil Engineering
Mechanical: LMR Consulting Mechanical
Landscape: Ground Works Office
Acoustics: RGD Acoustics
Sustainability: Beyond Efficiency
Interior Design: Direct Supply Aptura
Design Awards
2024 Merit Award, Best Service-Enriched 55+ Community, IL/AL/Memory Care –
Gold Nugget Design Awards, PCBC
The second floor memory care level has a group dining area and demonstration kitchen that provides an exciting opportunity for residents to watch their meals being prepared.
The bright and colorful design of the Fitness Room reflects a commitment to promoting health and wellness. Large windows optimize daylight and create an inviting atmosphere for physical activity and overall well-being.
