Architect:
Thoughtful Balance
Owner:
a.m. Rodriguez Associates, inc.
Categories:
I recommend them without reservation.
— Laura Nettleton
thoughtful balance, inc.
Contract Amount: $6.9m
Size: 55,000 s.f.
Type: Substantial Renovation
The Woodcrest Retirement Residence is located on a hilltop with a beautiful view of the rolling wooded hills of Moon Township. The 59-unit apartment building, each with its own complete kitchen and full bath, enables seniors to live independently. With the support of Allegheny County and the benefit of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, this residence is affordable to seniors whose income does not exceed 60% of the area median income.
Woodcrest Retirement Residence was redeveloped using Green Building techniques from an existing residential four-story building (formerly known as St. Joseph hall) that was used to house elderly nuns at the Felician Sisters Convent. Some of the green features include high efficiency mechanical equipment; Energy Star light fixtures; water conserving plumbing fixtures; recycled content materials; and improvements to the buildings thermal envelope such as energy efficient windos and spray foam insulation. This building is registered under the USGBC LEED for Homes Pilot Program and is a LEED GOLD project. The National Association of Home Builders named Woodcrest Retirement Residence as the Best 50+ Housing, Gold Winner.
This site, being located adjacent to the Felician Sisters Convent and High School, also provides opportunity for intergenerational experiences and extra amenities. A covered walkway is maintained between the convent and school for easy access to the library, cafeteria and chapel. Affordable meals are also delivered to the community room from the Felician Sister's cafeteria so that residents can enjoy meals in a social setting. The unique aspects of this program, which offer a comfortable and secure lifestyle in a healthy, green building adjacent to numerous activities that are supported by the staff and welcoming neighbors, make Woodcrest Retirement Residence 'More Than Just a Place to Live'.