Friendship Village Tempe, a senior living community in Tempe, Arizona, faced the challenge of limited space for expansion. In 2023, LCS Development decided to replace an outdated independent living building with a vertical design, resulting in a five-story building with 64 units and underground parking. The highlight of the project was the rooftop microbrewery, where residents could name and brand beers and participate in beer demonstrations.
The design aimed to promote interactions among residents, with amenity-forward features and creative use of space. This innovative approach led Friendship Village Tempe to win first place in the Dining Innovation category of the Senior Housing News Architecture and Design Awards.
The concept
Friendship Village underwent a multi-phase renovation project in the 1980s to cater to a new generation of residents. The expansion plans for the independent living building and rooftop restaurant began in 2019, with the goal of maximizing desert and Tempe views. The project included a rooftop patio, entertainment venues, and a connection to the nearby pickleball courts.
Ryan Cos. served as the contractor and builder, while Ryan A+E Inc. was the architect and Spellman Brady and Company handled interior design. The project prioritized outdoor elements and used desert-themed colors to embrace the natural surroundings.
Despite challenges such as full occupancy and pandemic-related delays, the construction was completed with minimal disturbances to residents. The project team received praise for their work, and the community’s expansion opened in September 2023.
The completion
The fully sold and nearly fully occupied expansion garnered positive feedback from residents and visitors alike. With future phases planned for 2025, the project team aims to apply their learnings to create an exceptional living experience at Friendship Village Tempe.
LCS’s marketing department benefits from the unique design of the building, which diverges from traditional senior living facilities. Judges in the architecture and design awards commended the project for its collaboration, outstanding outdoor connections, and innovative additions like the microbrewery.
