Kisco Master planning
San Diego, California
Vision
Kisco @ Del Sur envisioned the creation of a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) based on the “Art of Living Well.” As team lead designer, Don Doman, SAGE principal in charge of design, drew on the characteristics of the site to shape the community form: the adjacent park lands nestled in the valley below the site and the mountains across. He extended a spine of parklands up the center of the property on axis with the mountain-view. The community structures fan out on each side of the central spine.
Vibrant Central Commons
Don crafted the entry drive so that the arrival sequence started from the high point of the site at a two-story Central Commons overlooking the impressive view beyond for a wow-effect. The Central Commons was designed as a hub of social activities.
Intergenerational
The Central Commons was the focus of community activities to bring together all ages. In addition, the terraced building forms integrated the communities of independent, assisted, and skilled nursing around shared courtyards to promote intergenerational connections.
Hospitality Theme
Unique imagery and identity supported the functional hospitality theme.
Wellness & Ecology
Don drew on the theme of connectivity with ecology to parallel the wellness program. Besides the Central Commons exercise amenities, he included an extensive trail network with interpretive nodes in the site plan. The building design used indigenous materials for authenticity and a sense of connection to the land. Designed in anticipation of achieving LEED Gold, the design included many ecological site features. The design’s responsiveness to wind, sun, climate, and ecology sought to enrich the resident’s daily experience of nature with heightened awareness.
Project done while at Mithun Architects.
