DIGroup Architecture's JCHC Project Earns Recognition for Transformative Senior Living Des

New Brunswick, NJ / Philadelphia, PA [Feb. 14, 2025] – DIGroup Architecture (DIG) has been recognized for its design work on behalf of the Jewish Community Housing Corporation's (JCHC) Lester Senior Living, which received the Best of Essex 2024 Gold Award for Senior Care. This Reader's Choice award celebrates the Whippany, NJ campus' transformative designs that have elevated the overall senior-living experience.

This recognition also acknowledges the spirit of sustained progress at Lester Senior Living, and the recent completion of significant renovations enhancing the quality of life for all residents. These improvements, encompassing over 20,000 square feet of the Heller Independent Living and Weston Assisted Living wings, were designed by DIG. In addition to the Best of Essex award, Lester Senior Living earned the 2023 “Best Non-Profit Project” by the MidAtlantic Real Estate Journal.

"We are thrilled to see Lester Senior Living recognized for its commitment to continuous improvement and excellence that keeps pace with the care and lifestyle needs of today's seniors,” said Vince Myers, Principal-in-Charge of DIG's Senior Living Studio and President. “Our design approach was centered on elevating the experience of senior living – creating spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring and uplifting for residents and their families.”

The firm's design prioritized functionality, safety and comfort, resulting in a welcoming and vibrant environment. Key features include thoughtfully reimagined living spaces, enhanced common areas and updated safety features, all tailored to the residents' unique needs. The design enhances accessibility while incorporating inviting aesthetics, fostering a sense of community and independence, and reflecting JCHC's commitment to high-quality, affordable senior housing.

For a more interactive resident experience, Heller received a new café, reading room and refurbished dining room as well as a new theater with concession area. At Weston, a few years ago, an entire floor was transformed into a self-contained memory care unit with 12 apartments as well as a nursing station, dining room and lounge, quiet room and dedicated outdoor space. Collectively, both projects enhance Lester Senior Living's offering as a full-service, multi-care senior living community. 

Future upgrades will include renovation of outdoor areas, walking paths and landscaping to encourage and support expanded outdoor activities. The independent living and assisted living units are also slated to receive modern kitchen appliances, walk-in showers and lower shelving to prioritize safety and accessibility. These enhancements will ensure that Lester Senior Living evolves in sync with the needs of their residents and stays on the cutting edge of service offerings in the greater community.

These initiatives exemplify DIG's expertise in senior living design and its dedication to creating spaces that empower individuals while enriching communities. As a certified Minority-Owned, Disadvantaged and Small Business Enterprise (MBE/DBE/SBE), DIG brings a mission-driven approach to its work, delivering impactful design solutions across senior living, healthcare, education and civic spaces. 

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Formed in 2006 and headquartered in New Brunswick, N.J., with offices in Philadelphia, DIGroup Architecture (DIG) is an award-winning architecture, interior and graphic design firm serving clients and communities in education, civic, healthcare and senior living spaces. DIG is a certified Minority-Owned, Disadvantaged and Small Business Enterprise (MBE/DBE/SBE), driven to create “Architecture for Change.”