The New Laguna Honda: Choice and Community at the “Anti-Institution”

When residents move into the new Laguna Honda later this summer, they will be transported into one of the world’s most forward thinking long-term care facilities. Every detail of life was considered in the evidence-based design and operational plan to ensure the best possible outcomes for health and safety. The features included here, as well as many others, create a visually appealing home that inspires community and provides choices throughout the day.

Both wings of the new buildings lead to The Esplanade or “main street”. Starting with a sun-lit atrium that holds a lush garden and aviary, The Esplanade is lined with amenities including a community theatre, art studios for resident painters and sculptors, a multi-media library, a barber shop and a beauty salon and more - providing residents with a range of activities that support healing. Original artwork is displayed and even the handrails were artist-designed.

Care has gone into creating smaller communities, allowing residents many opportunities to socialize with familiar faces. Each floor is a distinctive neighborhood of four 15-person households that have sun-lit indoor and outdoor common areas with original artwork that not only beautifies but assists sensory stimulation and way-finding and encourages activity, interaction with nature, and activation of memory.

No longer will residents eat alone from bedside trays at a pre-determined time. Restaurant-style meals will be served in their choice of sunny dining rooms and healthy snacks and beverages are available any time in every neighborhood as well as in The Esplanade.

In addition, residents have many options for keeping active. There are paths for walking and rolling, therapeutic gardens, a fully equipped gym and two indoor pools for rehabilitative therapy.

The new Lagunda Honda puts San Francisco on the map as an innovative leader in long term care and rehabilitation.