Rekai Cherry Campus of Care

Rekai Cherry: A Campus of Care for Toronto's Future

Artellix is proud to be a part of the design team for the Rekai Centre at Cherry Place, an innovative new long-term care home and community hub in Toronto's West Don Lands. This project is a prime example of our commitment to creating meaningful and intuitive experiences within complex spaces. We are excited to help develop a "Campus of Care" that sets a new standard for senior living and community integration.

The Rekai Centre at Cherry Place is more than just a long-term care facility; it’s a 13-story, multi-use building with 348 beds, a dialysis clinic, a co-op program for personal support workers, and various community spaces. This project presents a unique challenge: to develop a comprehensive wayfinding and experiential design strategy that is easy to navigate for residents, visitors, staff, and community members, while also being welcoming, inclusive, and emotionally supportive. Our design needs to address the diverse needs of an aging population, including those with cognitive impairments, and integrate seamlessly with the building's architecture and the surrounding vibrant neighbourhood.

Our approach is rooted in emotion-focused care and an understanding of the user journey. We focus on creating a calm and reassuring environment through intuitive visual cues, carefully considered signage, and engaging placemaking elements. The wayfinding system must prioritize clarity and simplicity. The design should incorporate contextual cues that help orient residents and visitors. Distinct colour palettes and unique themes can help create memorable landmarks that aid navigation and reduce anxiety. Inclusivity and diversity are key in our design journey. The facility includes a dedicated Rainbow Wing for the 2SLGBTQI+ community and specialized floors for individuals with Alzheimer's and Dementia. Our design must ensure that all spaces are affirming and accessible to everyone, promoting a sense of belonging and dignity.

Upon its completion, the Rekai Centre at Cherry Place will provide much-needed long-term care beds and also serves as a vital community hub. The thoughtful wayfinding and experiential design elements will contribute to a more positive and dignified experience for residents, making it easier for them to feel at home and remain connected to their community. Artellix is proud to be contributing to a project that redefines what a long-term care facility can be: a true Campus of Care, dedicated to health, education, and community connection.

(Project in progress, stay tuned for photos of completed work!)