Many organizations that have grown large wind up with either a giant, intimidating structure or a hodgepodge of different-looking buildings or additions, confusing visitors and making them feel small or unwanted.
But Attic Angel Place at 8301 Old Sauk Road in Middleton makes its 188,000-square-foot facility on nine acres on Madison's southwest side seem friendly, accessible, and human, which is "absolutely in support of our mission," says President Mary Ann Drescher. The integrated design of the site and the buildings creates a quiet impression of approachability, friendliness, and calm. Starting in 1998, it was designed by Aldrian Guszkowski and built in stages by C.G. Schmidt for a total of $21 million. In addition, Attic Angel has its Prairie Point, 108 life lease homes, the third phase of which might start next year.
Site plan as important as building design
The decision to move to Attic Angel Place is often difficult. The very first impression prospective residents and their families must receive is critically important. Any hint of institutionalism would dishearten residents and turn away potential newcomers.
Attic Angel addressed this challenge even before one gets to the building. A great deal of thought went into the site plan, even before the building itself was designed. Carefully designed roadways naturally guide visitors to where they should go; the main entry is easy to identify. It's important that there's only one large entry, which lets everyone get oriented immediately. Many big buildings have too many entries because the site plan wasn't thought through.
The exterior architecture, which was approved by the residents of Attic Angel's previous facility — is of a familiar, traditional style. The natural tones and materials suit the clientele, not the personal style of the architect. A careful landscaping plan, including a pond and waterfall, reinforce the message of caring connections.
Human scale throughout
Even though the main building is quite large, it just doesn't seem that way. Some large buildings, like the Overture Center, are meant to convey a feeling of grandness, with large spaces, large fixtures, and the same strong color scheme throughout, but Attic Angel was after a different atmosphere: the attention to small details, variety, and smaller spaces create what architects call a "human scale."
Design features throughout promote comfort and show sensitivity to the residents' needs. There are quiet corners with comfortable chairs throughout. A variety of dining spaces, recreation rooms, and reading areas let residents create their own personal experience. A variety of artwork, some by the residents themselves, also helps personalize their experience.
There are opportunities for both unforced socialization as well as privacy throughout the building and the site. The raised gardens have been very popular. Too many large buildings, in the name of "brand management," create a boring uniformity everywhere.
Some of Attic Angel's residents require extra care for memory loss or physical limitations. Again, thoughtful planning has resulted in including needed features without making those residents feel separate or different.
Lessons of success
This careful planning works: Attic Angel has always had a waiting list and enjoys a maximum 97 percent occupancy rate.
Most satisfaction scores are above 95 percent which is exceptional in such a tightly regulated industry.
Growth is good, but it's hard to have large buildings or campuses that stay customer-friendly.
No business, no matter how large, wants to intimidate their customers or employees.
Executives need their architect to plan ahead, making sure their buildings are always places people will feel welcome.
The integrated design of Attic Angel Community is central to the facility's mission, says President Mary Ann Drescher. (Joseph W. Jackson III -- State Journal archives)
