What can Dutch architects teach us about design for aging populations? Such was the point of departure for Zeidler Architecture, a Canadian office, for a new elderly residential community in Calgary, Alberta. The forthcoming 307,000-square-foot building will specifically cater to seniors and adults with disabilities. Construction broke ground recently on the new 420-bed residence backed by Bethany Care Society, a local nonprofit. Its all happening in Calgarys Hounsfield Heights-Briar Hill neighborhood, which is just northwest of downtown. Jennifer McCue, President and CEO of Bethany Care Society, said that the new building will replace an existing one from 1945.Over 20 years ago, we began planning for the eventual replacement of Bethany Calgary as models of care evolved and as costs and risks associated with aging infrastructure increased, McCue said in a statement. This new development will ensure we can continue serving Alberta seniors in a modern, welcoming environment that truly reflects our mission to create caring communities.The building will comprise 307,000 square feet. (Courtesy Zeidler Architecture)Zeidler Architecture added that the project is inspired by a well-known community in the Netherlands, Hogeweyk Dementia Village, designed by Buro Kade. Zeidler Architectures Bill Mitchell visited Hogeweyk Village to see how it works and what his office could learn from it. The design consists of three long bar buildings that are connected with a volume that runs perpendicular to them. The masses, Zeidler Architecture said, are broken up into small homes. Each small home will have 14 rooms for patients, and shared dining and living spaces.The masses have light and dark cladding, distinguished by curtain walls. The facades are broken up by dynamic compositional planes. The ground floor is expressed in darker cladding, while the upper floors are soft gray.Patients will enjoy a number of shared facilities, including courtyards. (Courtesy Zeidler Architecture)This gesture is meant to contrast with the typical, rather monotonous spaces patients with disabilities typically endure. There will also be themed community spaces on every floor, garden areas where residents can grow flowers, a bistro, and lush courtyards.Such elements can help normalize the experience of aging, Zeidler Architecture said, as well as reduce the alienation and loneliness patients with disabilities often experience.The project is slated for completion in 2027.