DENVER, CO OZ Architecture, an award-winning, national architecture and design firm, has been selected by Roaring Fork Lodge LLC to design a new 10-acre senior living community in Montrose, Colorado. The plan, which has been approved by the city's planning commission, will feature 80,000 square feet of living arrangements for seniors - ranging from independent living to memory care. 

The community will offer 10 independent living, two-bedroom duplex cottages which connect to Montrose's Riverwalk Trail. The cottages will be designed to allow residents to age in place and each will come with a single car garage. The main senior living building will include 69 studio and one-bedroom independent living, assisted living and memory care units. The site will also feature retail aimed at complementing the needs and desires of senior population including a potential coffee shop, café and small medical clinic. Initial plans developed by OZ Architecture include a significant focus on features that will connect residents to the outdoors and encourage them to take walks and enjoy the idyllic setting of the community.

Jami Mohlenkamp, Principal at OZ Architecture and head of the firm's Senior Living practice, said, "With Montrose, OZ Architecture and Roaring Fork Lodge are creating an elevated living environment for seniors in a beautiful site on the western slope, one that supports their health and wellness through all stages of aging and accommodates their desire to remain independent and age in place as long as possible."  

Vivage Senior Living, a Colorado-based company with a national presence in senior living and specialized senior healthcare services, will operate the community.

Construction is expected to start in late 2016.