Amenta Emma Architects completed the design for the Thames Edge at Fairview, a new model community for aging located in Groton, Connecticut.

The Thames Edge at Fairview perches on a bluff overlooking the Thames River in Groton, CT. The development consists of 40 homes at a variety of price points, owned and managed by the Odd Fellows Home, which has provided care since 1892. The concept provides able-bodied seniors with a residence more suitable to staying independent longer. While residents have “down-sized” from the traditional family home, they still live in a neighborhood that is private, with community connections and available services if required. All is meant to provide comfort, safely and security.

Designed in two phases, Thames Edge offers a contemporary setting with magnificent river views and architecture that feels “young, exudes youthful energy” according to one resident. Homes are modeled after new England seaside cottages.

While Phase 1 residents catch glimpses of the river, Phase 2, capitalizes on views with corner windows and wrap-around decks oriented toward the river. Interiors utilize universal design, which can be adapted as resident needs change. Residents enjoy a clubhouse with an outdoor pool and fitness center. The clubhouse houses a restaurant, Grille 92, which is open to the public. A shopping area, with grocery, hair salon and department store is less than a mile away.

The community model, a reaction to traditional, outdated concepts, is unique to Connecticut in several ways. By design, properties range from the high $100,000s to high $400,000s, fostering economic diversity. A school teacher can now live next to a former CEO. Many services, for example meals and housekeeping, are offered a la carte, rather than being included in fees. This allows residents the flexibility to cook at home or dine at the new restaurant. Maintenance is included, meaning no worries typically associated with stand-alone homes. There is an emergency call service. Lifetime leases include discounts on nursing home care, if needed. There is no “assisted living” option by design. However, the community soon hopes to offer flexible in-house care. Rather than having to hire assistance services for a required number of hours or days, Fairview hopes to have a skilled caregiver who can be available to provide help in smaller blocks of time, for example, an hour or two a day to help with bathing or to prepare breakfast. It is all about keeping people independent longer.

Architect: Amenta Emma Architects
Contractors: KBE (Phase I), Carlin Construction (Phase II)
Photography: Robert Benson Photography