“A building that sits lightly on the land” is how the City of Henderson described the vision of their new Senior Center. CSD Architects worked closely with the City of Henderson and the Senior Center Design Committee to analyze sites, program and designs for the now Heritage Park Senior Facility.

The building design, inspired by the surrounding mountains, is simple geometry with gently sloping, ribbed, metal roof planes that bend down toward the earth and become wall planes that transition to the landscape. The standing-seam metal provides a high-performance roof and wall system, and the deep overhangs shade the walls and give the appearance of floating over the land. An integral element of the design is an exterior steel cage filled with stones, referred to as gabions.

Safety, security, views, and ease of movement throughout the single-story facility were important features of the design. Walking distances inside the building were considered and spaces grouped together for activities. Restrooms were functionally designed for location and windows were strategically placed to take advantage of views when sitting and standing.

Interior elements are a mixture of earthy and modern; a creative juxtaposition of wood, stone, glass, steel, cork, marmoleum, rich textural drapery and special lighting treatments all work together to create a facility that is warm, friendly, inviting, durable and sustainable. Low VOC paint and carpets round out the interior design. Color was used to delineate the difference between floor and wall surfaces, entrances to new rooms and as vibrant accents throughout the facility.

The center houses a commercial kitchen, dining area, wellness center, craft and game rooms, fitness/weight rooms, multipurpose room, conference rooms, movie room, and administrative spaces. Outdoor spaces include a BBQ area and exterior game spaces.

This project is LEED Gold Certified.