Massry Residence at Daughters of Sarah
Albany, New York

The Massry Residence, an assisted living residence, is part of Daughters of Sarah, a multilevel-of-care campus founded on Jewish values and traditions.  The campus design goal was to create a true aging-in-place environment for a population accustomed to the amenities and autonomy of home ownership. 

The campus is located in the protected Pine Bush region of Albany.  The design challenge of this project was to integrate a building footprint within the parameters of regulatory authorities, minimizing the environmental impact to this area. 

The new addition is located at the front of the campus and creates a new image for the existing building.  The two-story building is designed with “shingle-style” architecture to reflect residential detail and scale.   The Massry Residence is connected to the main building and allows for shared use of major facilities, including two completely separate kitchens to accommodate kosher meals.

The entrance to the lobby is reminiscent of a “grand hotel,” with its wood staircase leading to a second floor mezzanine.  The lobby opens into a warm reception area, formal and private dining areas, living room and a wellness and exercise center.  For residents’ convenience, the main commons includes a beauty/barber shop and a country store with sit-down café. 

The apartment wings are designed as neighborhoods around a central living room which provides access to outdoor gardens and patios.  The 56 one- and two-bedroom apartments feature 9-foot ceilings and bay windows that provide ample natural daylight.

Featured in "Design," An Annual Publication of Nursing Homes Long Term Care Management, March 2003.