Island Living: BSL's Newest Assisted Living Community
by George T. Wilson AIA NCARB



Project Team:
George T. Wilson AIA NCARB; Norman Holloway RA; Bob Warwick; and Susan Gauld
Location: Fenwick Island, DE
Size: 4 Stories, 82,933 Square Feet, 120 Beds
Building: New Ground Up Facility
Rendering Provided by: CadRender

Over the past 9 years, Meyer Design, Inc. has collaborated with Brandywine Senior Living (BSL) on 11 assisted living and skilled nursing facilities in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

On July 10, 2006, BSL was acquired by the national powerhouse private equity investor Warburg Pincus. Currently BSL owns and operates 9 assisted living and Alzheimers facilities, consisting of nearly 1,000 beds. The company provides high quality residences for seniors with attractive locations, on-site nursing care and active, vibrant environments.

The Warburg Pincus acquisition is a reflection of the healthy economic prospects for assisted living. With the acquisition comes a renewed strategy to expand the company and its facilities. BSL is in active pursuit of land and properties for future development.

Meyer is currently designing 2 new Ground Up assisted living communities for Brandywine Senior Living in Kennett Square, PA and Fenwick Island, DE, which are slated for 2007 completion.

The newest facility, Fenwick Island, is a true island oasis. Nestled into a quaint residential neighborhood, this assisted living community features magnificent bay views, endless amenities and spacious concierge service suites with a 24-hour staff.

To blend in with the natural whimsy of the beach atmosphere, Meyer Design, Inc. incorporated an elegantly flowing fountain feature and a steeple / tower architectural detail, reminiscent of the historic Fenwick Island Lighthouse. A large veranda is situated at the highest point of the building for "Island" residents to enjoy amazing sunset views of the Isle of Wight Bay.

Meyer specified brick and vinyl siding in soft pastel shades to compliment the quaint character of the surrounding residential buildings. Buffers were integrated into the design to conceal exterior service areas like loading docks and HVAC units, to keep the most beautiful design elements visible to neighboring communities.

Other amenities and features include:

  • Alzheimer's Wing with beautifully-landscaped courtyard
  • Wellness Center
  • Library
  • Beauty Salon
  • Lounge / Music Room
  • Media Room
  • Endless Pool / Exercise Area
  • Café / Coffee Bar
  • Large Main Dining Room
  • Private Dining Room
  • Fully-Equipped Kitchen
  • Large Meeting Room
  • Conference Room
  • Administrative Offices


Meyer Design, Inc
227 East Lancaster Ave. Ardmore, PA 19003
Tel: 610.649.8500 Fax: 610.649.8509 E-mail: jgould@meyer-associates.com

835 N. Tatnall St. Wimington, DE 19801
Tel: 302.575.1700 Fax: 302.575.1606 E-mail: jgould@meyer-associates.com

© Copyright 2006, Meyer Design, Inc.