The 4,000 SF Griswold Senior Center was bustling, and events were getting increasingly crowded. The organization no longer fit. It was time for the growing town to make a change. The initial idea was to add to the existing building, but the site was too small. The town, which had previously designed several school projects with KBA, engaged the firm again to help them with a newer, more significant senior center that could accommodate the town’s growing senior population and the services it provides.
KBA collaborated with the staff and patrons to create a building that meets the many needs of the active population. The result was a new 14,000 SF facility located near multiple senior housing neighborhoods. Both the exterior and interior are reminiscent of the historic mills around which Griswold was built. When you arrive, you see a building designed to snugly fit the scale of the neighborhood, surrounded by acres of fields and trees, its actual size camouflaged by the scenery. The interior is warm and welcoming with durable wood-look floors, high natural wood-beamed ceilings, and many large windows to bring in the natural light and reveal the beautiful surroundings.
Features of the new single-story facility include a library/computer room with a gas fireplace, multi-purpose function rooms, a medical suite, and administrative offices. A large kitchen accommodates the elderly nutrition and Meals on Wheels programs. The new facility has energy-efficient mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and ample parking for visitors and staff. Overall, the new Griswold Senior Center is a great addition to the town, catering to the needs of the active senior population.