Sutter SeniorCare PACE Facility
Architect : Dreyfuss + Blackford Location : Sacramento Year completed : 2018
Located near the convergence of the American and Sacramento rivers , the new Sutter SeniorCare PACE facility in Sacramento is an adaptive reuse of a former California Highway Patrol office . The original PACE ( Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly ) facilities were housed in two old , dilapidated buildings ; the architect ’ s challenge was to combine the in-house and home care services in one new location .
The facility comprises three separate buildings that are interconnected by a light-filled outdoor courtyard . A number of the participants at PACE have dementia , Alzheimer ’ s disease and sensory issues , so the design reflects these specific needs , including the addition of a sensory deprivation space for a peaceful , quiet experience . A full clinic provides primary care and dental services , and a large , open great room serves as the main space for services and activities during the day . “ We wanted this to feel like an extension of the participants ’ homes , so we brought a lot of warmth and a feeling of hospitality to the space ,” explains Stephanie Swain , director of interior design for Sacramento-based architect firm Dreyfuss + Blackford .
Smaller rooms for arts , crafts and reading branch off the great room . Easy access to the outdoor courtyard with plantings , games and a myriad of seating extends the usable space . To provide meals on-site and for home delivery , the facility has a full-service warming kitchen . Other amenities include shower facilities , a salon and a complete physical therapy suite . On average , 150 participants utilize the site each day .
A separate space was designed for the administrative offices , with input from facility staff on the aesthetic design and material selection for beauty and longevity . Private access to the outdoor courtyard for staff was important and made possible with a sliding ipe-wood ( a Brazilian hardwood ) gate , which can open up for larger events .
To promote a positive patient experience , participants helped select the artwork that occupies the space , including pieces they found memorable , such as an old Singer sewing machine . A vibrant and colorful image of a musician playing the cello , created by a local artist , hangs in the day room .
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