Elmhurst announces major expansion
From the Intelligencer / Wheeling News-Register
November 17, 2007
by Heather Ziegler
WHEELING — The demand for additional assisted living quarters at Elmhurst, The House of Friendship in Wheeling, has prompted the board of directors to embark on a multi-million dollar expansion project to add 12 suites to the existing complex on National Road in the Pleasant Valley section of the city.
Jamie Crow, executive director at Elmhurst, said crews will break ground on the addition Nov. 26. She said the project marks the third renovation to the original Victorian mansion that had been the home of the Samuel S. Bloch family.
The 22,000 square-foot, four-story addition, will house four two-bedroom suites and eight one-bedroom suites. The dining room in the existing building will be enlarged and an additional activity room will be constructed to accommodate the increased population.
Administrative offices will be moved into the new addition with a central lobby featuring an inviting fireplace and seating area, reception area and additional elevator.
Crow said the board has been considering the project for several years. “Originally the board had discussed this several years ago. However, when Sept. 11 occurred, there were stock market issues. Then the board revisited the issue, knowing the demand is out there. We felt the time was right,” Crow said.
Demand is the right word. According to Crow, there is already a waiting list for the new suites. Potential residents are plunking down deposits ranging from $2,500 to $3,000 to be placed on the list.
“Our current residents are pleased with their rooms and the addition will provide even more space for singles or couples,” Crow added. “As far as what Elmhurst provides, we have found our niche.”
All of the one-bedroom apartments will have terraces off the back which will face the wooded creek area. Crow said while the project will mean losing some of the larger trees on the property, new eye-catching landscaping will be installed for the residents to enjoy. Additional security measures will be put in place at the facility as well.
“Landscaping will include gardens and walking paths for the outdoor enjoyment of the residents,”î Crow said.
She noted there has been an increase in the number of couples who inquire about living at Elmhurst. Currently, there are 37 residents at Elmhurst, including two couples. Originally, Elmhurst became a home for elderly women when a new wing was completed in 1942. Further renovations occurred in 1991 when the four-story wing was renovated to accommodate men, women and couples.
A new, covered main entrance and a terrace with a covered trellis adjacent to the new activity room will be incorporated in the addition, Crow said.
The new entry hall will feature a barrel vault ceiling and rich cherry woodwork. The main focus of the entry will be a new fireplace accented with ceramic tile and encased sitting areas. Wall sconces will light the hallways, she noted.
The exterior of the new addition is designed to correspond to the current facility’s architecture to ensure the integrity of the historic Victorian structure. Architect for the project is Victor Greco from the Wheeling firm, Schamu Machowski Greco Architects. Construction contractor is Jarvis Downing & Emch of Wheeling.
For more information or to be placed on the waiting list for the new suites, call Crow at 304-242-0240 or visit Elmhurst’s Web site at www.elmhurstpch.com. Elmhurst is located at 1228 National Road, Wheeling.
