
Childers Place, The Bivins Foundation
Amarillo, Texas
SIZE: 105,00 SF I SERVICES: PLANNING, ARCHITECTURE, INTERIOR DESIGN
ROLE: PROJECT ARCHITECT, PROJECT DESIGNER
Childers Place, a long-term care “center of excellence,” sets the standard of nursing and memory care for the next generation. The 60-room facility creates a superior resident experience while providing a supportive environment for families.
The design captures an extraordinary amount of daylight and offers immediate connections to nature. Selected rooms open onto terraces where beds can be wheeled outdoors, while others feature bay windows with expansive views. To encourage community, 10-room households are paired to create intimate neighborhoods offering engaging lounge and activity areas. Each 350 sf private room features technologies that optimize care and safety.
To enhance the visitor experience, a deep entrance courtyard provides a rejuvenating environmental transition upon entering and leaving the building. Atrium-height corridors serve the same function to and from resident wings. Wireless networking in each room allows a connection to outside responsibilities, and window seats provide sleeping space for overnight visits.
The facility also includes 8,000 sf of tenant space for related senior agencies, creating a center for elder care resources that expedites and deinstitutionalizes the problem-solving process for residents, families, and the community.
AWARDS:
Design/Environments for Aging: Citation of Merit; National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), Best of 50+ Housing Award: Gold Award, 2008
American Society of Interior Designers Illinois Chapter, Design Excellence Awards: First Place, Healthcare, 2008
AIA/LeadingAge Design for Aging Review, 2007
PUBLICATIONS:
Long-Term Living Magazine, “Childers Place,” March 2008
Orlando Sentinal, “A Place That Feels More Like Home,” February 3, 2008
Chicago Tribune, “Next Up Focus on Family and Community,” January 20, 2008







