Photo by Ed Wonsek | Courtesy of The Architectural Team

What: The Cordwainer
Where: 555 Cordwainer Drive, Norwell
Owner: Anthemion Senior Lifestyles
Built: 2021-2023

Anthemion Senior Lifestyles’ recently completed Cordwainer complex was designed to fill a gap in the assisted-living built environment with bright and airy designs reflecting research about the specific needs of memory care patients.

The Architectural Team (TAT) of Chelsea designed the 54-unit, 50,000-square-foot complex to reflect research that natural light can reduce depression among dementia patients.

A set of skylights set above the central atrium sensory garden floods the interior courtyard with natural light. To maximize natural daylight penetration deep into floor plates, designers added a series of large clerestory windows in common areas. Three light wells are spaced along the north-facing face, providing diffuse natural lighting to second-story activity rooms. Residential units include oversized tilt-and-turn windows.

They Said It:

“Biophilia’s health and wellness benefits are frequently discussed in relation to high-end apartment buildings and workplace design, but the positive impacts can be especially profound for those with memory impairment. With studies showing a connection between natural light and resident health outcomes, for example, there are compelling reasons for memory care providers and their architects to utilize the principles of biophilic design.”
— Anthony Vivirito, Associate, TAT