Designing for a New Generation
As senior living evolves, so do the expectations of its residents, especially baby boomers. Erin understands that today’s seniors seek more than just care; they seek connection, experiences, and independence. “Boomers value wellness, technology, and beautiful environments,” she explains. “So, we focus on creating smaller, more intentional spaces that encourage engagement.” Cedarhurst of Wentzville reflects this approach. Cozy social areas such as the bistro and bar are located right off the main living spaces. “We wanted the bistro to feel like a trendy but inviting neighborhood coffee shop,” Erin says. “Think warm leather seating, velvet upholstery, vintage lighting — a space that feels just as natural for coffee and conversation as it does for reading or working on a laptop.” These spaces are thoughtfully defined through architectural details like beams, ceiling recesses, and floor pattern shifts, guiding residents from one area to the next while maintaining openness. Both the bistro and bar feature large windows and direct access to patios, reinforcing Cedarhurst’s commitment to indoor-outdoor living and natural light. “These design choices might seem small,” Erin says, “but they dramatically enhance daily life and well-being.” Inviting Creativity and Connection For Erin, designing a Cedarhurst community means more than meeting physical needs, it means sparking joy and curiosity. That’s why the Wentzville prototype includes a vibrant creativity hub, open on two sides to the hallway and intentionally filled with color and inspiration. “This space is meant to invite,” she says. “Whether it’s painting, sewing, or designing something entirely new, I wanted to offer a place where residents feel encouraged to explore who they are creatively.” Another favorite space is the community room — a flexible, light-filled environment with varied seating that can host everything from daily dining to special events. It opens into a theater, and adjacent to it sits a cozy lounge anchored by a two-sided fireplace. “It’s a space that encourages connection in all its forms,” Erin says.
The Heart of Home
Ultimately, Erin’s mission goes beyond architecture and interior design. It’s about creating environments that resonate emotionally. “When residents and their families walk into a new Cedarhurst community, I want them to feel something right away,” she shares. “I want them to see a reflection of themselves; of the life they’ve lived and the life they want to continue living.” Erin’s goal is ambitious: to shift perceptions of what senior living can be. “I want people to walk in and say, ‘I’d love to live here,’” she says. “Because when that happens, visiting becomes joyful, and living here becomes something to be proud of.” At Cedarhurst of Wentzville, that vision is coming to life — one thoughtful detail at a time.
CEDARHURST SENIOR LIVING | SUMMER FLOURISH 2025 11
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