Sneak peek: Transformation in progress

In 2009, United Active Living opened the doors to its’ flagship Calgary community, Garrison Green, hoping to create a new vision for older adult living. While at first blush, the community had all the recognizable hallmarks of a retirement residence, upon closer look it reveals defining pillars upheld to this day. A community committed to local connections, lifelong learning, active aging, and celebrating the individual. As the residents began to occupy the building, it wasn’t long before music and laughter filtered out of the theatre, splatters of paint and clay adorned the walls of the Art Studio, and the hustle and bustle of a thriving community greeting everyone who walked through the doors.

Sixteen years later, Garrison Green is undergoing a new transformation—this year, renovations are underway, revealing bright modern, spaces to inspire residents to keep learning, creating, and moving.

From the very beginning, residents played a key role in shaping the vision for Garrison Green’s transformation. Through focus groups, information sessions, and surveys, they provided valuable input on everything from furniture and fixtures to finishes and overall space design. Their feedback helped guide decisions to ensure the updates not only enhance aesthetics but also support comfort, accessibility, and everyday living.  

The resulting transformation at Garrison Green is touching every common space, creating an environment that feels both refreshed and familiar—a place that continues to feel like home with added functionality.

The theatre now boasts upgraded technology, with a new projector, lighting, and sound system enhancing every performance, film screening, and lecture.

The art studio’s reimagined open-concept design provides a larger open space for workshops and independent practice, where emerging and seasoned artists work shoulder to shoulder, guided by a team of professional artists.

Dixie Baum, Creative Facilitator, is excited to curate the space with works from past and present residents: “We’re really thrilled with how the studio looks and functions now. We can accommodate more residents in workshops, and the space is really becoming something special.”

The transformation is showing itself throughout the community in other spaces too. The bistro and dining room will soon feature elegant modern flooring and warm, inviting millwork that complements the rich social atmosphere at mealtimes.

The lounge, soon to be revitalized with improved lighting and cosy seating areas, perfect for relaxed conversations and impromptu gatherings.

Meanwhile, the concierge and lobby area will soon undergo updates to provide a more welcoming and functional first impression for residents and guests alike.

Without a doubt, residents are already beginning to see and enjoy the space enhancements throughout the community—from the newly refreshed art studio, to the dining room and fireplace lounge. While a significant transformation is underway, one thing has stayed constant: connection continues to be the common thread, weaving its way through daily life here. At a recent birthday celebration, Violet, Joan, Loretta, and Faye are seated at a table, enjoying cake and lively conversation. “When I first toured United,” says Violet who moved to Garrison Green in December 2024, “I walked in just as the other residents and team members were returning from a charity walk for Alzheimer’s.” Violet continues: “There was so much energy! I toured other places, but I really loved the arts partnerships, and how active and vibrant the community is!”

Joan agrees, “I moved from Red Deer to be closer to my family, and I was initially worried about meeting people—but everyone here is so friendly. I love that I have the freedom to do what I want. In my old community, we had assigned seating so it could be hard to connect with other residents. Here, I get to move freely, and I’ve connected with so many people.”

For Loretta, moving to Garrison Green last year meant she could be closer to her husband in long term care. “I can walk over to see my husband across the street,” she says, “I love that it’s easy to visit him every day. I also love not having to cook anymore! I have more time to be myself, and to spend time with friends.” 

Faye has been in at Garrison Green for nearly two years, and loves seeing the changes to her home. “The renovations have been going really well,” Faye remarks. “Each day, we see something new, and it’s exciting to see the changes happen right before our eyes.”

“Transformation isn’t easy,” says Alan Chapple, Executive Director at Garrison Green, “But we’ve taken great care to communicate progress and carefully plan each phase of the project to ensure disruption is minimized as much as possible.” Alan continues, “Residents and team members have even gotten into the spirit of the project. When the construction boards went up to define living space from construction areas, residents came together to create bright and vibrant murals for the walls. They have a lot of pride in their community, and as everything comes together, it’s wonderful to see them interact in the spaces in a brand-new way.”

With so many exciting updates, now is the perfect time to experience the transformation first hand. “With this transformation, we’re adding even more value to the living experience at Garrison Green. There’s never been a better time to come explore,” says Maddison Klein, Active Living Advisor at Garrison Green. “The enhancements we’ve made are not only beautiful but designed to enrich the lifestyle of every resident. If you’ve ever considered senior living, or you’re looking for a community that truly feels like home, now is a great time to experience the difference for yourself.”

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Stop by Garrison Green and (re)discover life at United!