The Bliss-Liewert Senior Center is located in the heart of the downtown rural community of Blissfield, Michigan and has serviced the area’s elderly population by providing various community and social activities. Programming is the strength of the organization and includes services such as Meals on Wheels, Bridge Club, travel and exercise programs amongst other social experiences. The Senior Center currently functions out of a commercial storefront located on one of two primary streets that intersect to form the core of Blissfield. The facility’s presence in the heart of the community has encouraged its popularity and use.

 

Jacobs Pannicke Architects, Inc. now known as ARCHitecture trio, inc. was selected by the Bliss-Liewert Board of Directors to assist with the space planning study of the proposed expansion of the Senior Center. The Board is contemplating purchasing the adjacent storefront to allow for additional and expanded programming for the increasing number of seniors. Various design options were investigated to determine how to maximize the space, provide for greatest flexibility of use, fit the needs of the multiple user groups and optimize storage. 

 

Current and future needs were reviewed for accessibility and egress. Points of entry and current parking were also of consideration. Currently, no outdoor space is available to the Senior Center. The acquisition of the adjacent new building would provide limited site development opportunities. An outdoor art studio / gallery space is proposed to further expand their community exposure and awareness.

 

The Board intends to utilize the study to securing grants and other funding.

 

Project was carried out under ARCHitecture trio’s former company name Jacobs Pannicke Architects, Inc.

 

Study Completion:  Spring 2007