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Designing Skilled Nursing Communities that Put the Individuals First

Written by Admin | Nov 17, 2025 3:26:00 PM
by Julie Heiberger, aia ncarb leed ap, and Jon Rynish aia leed ap
This article first appeared on mcknight's Long-Term Care News website November 2025

Ask any successful long-term care leader what sets their organization apart, and the answer will likely come back to the same theme: the people.

Strong leadership, resolute staff, engaged families and appreciative residents are what truly define excellence in skilled nursing.

Buildings, amenities and technology all matter, but they are supporting players. People who live in, work in and visit your community are the heart of long-term care. That truth should shape how we design and operate our spaces.

The challenge for nursing home leaders is clear: How do we create environments that not only meet high clinical standards but also enhance daily life for residents and support staff well-being? From our experience collaborating with successful providers, we outlined six valuable design strategies that place people at the center.