Fairhaven Senior Services, a Life Plan community in Whitewater, Wisconsin, is dedicated to helping residents remain as independent and active as possible by offering various levels of care. To enhance their commitment to quality living, Fairhaven announced a $10 million renovation in 2023 to expand and update their Community Based Residential Facility (CBRF) Assisted Living units. As their trusted building partner, we led a multi-phase remodel of the second, third, and fourth floors, creating 47 new units and additional lounges. The third and fourth floors feature 24 units with modern amenities, while the second floor provides 23 units with more intensive care options.
Overcoming Challenges in Senior Living Renovations
Renovating an occupied senior living facility presents unique challenges that require strategic planning, proactive communication, and skilled execution. Our recent remodel project involved coordinating plumbing rough-ins on the second floor while working above an active, occupied space, requiring careful management to minimize disruption to staff and residents.
Working Above an Active Floor
Opening ceilings in an operational facility required a meticulous work plan. We collaborated closely with ownership and staff to communicate the scope and impact of construction. To ensure resident comfort and safety, our team tented off work areas to control dust and noise and identified affected apartments in advance, allowing for temporary relocations as needed.
Integrating New Construction with an Aging Structure
Renovating an older facility often brings unforeseen structural challenges. The project required selective demolition while preserving existing retaining walls to maintain cost efficiency. However, integrating modern MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) systems into the original structure posed difficulties—especially with the facility’s unique Pyro Block wall system, which lacks cavities for MEP pathways. This necessitated labor-intensive cutting and patching, adding complexity to the project.
Additionally, outdated shafts and wall conditions that no longer met fire codes required modifications to ensure compliance.
Strategic Solutions for Efficiency
To overcome these challenges, we partnered with Hilti, leveraging their expertise to introduce a new product that reduced labor costs. By self-performing demolition and carpentry, our team maintained seamless communication, quickly addressed unexpected conditions, and managed additional scope and labor needs. This hands-on approach allowed us to execute the renovation efficiently while maintaining high-quality standards.
Delivering Fairhaven’s Vision
Through careful planning and expert collaboration, we successfully navigated the complexities of renovating an occupied senior living facility. This remodel not only enhances Fairhaven’s ability to provide high-quality care but also ensures their community remains a comfortable and functional space for residents now and in the future.
