The residents and staff of Bethesda Lutheran Home Services Inc., Watertown, Wis., will soon enjoy completion of the first of a four-phase, $45 million–$50 million plan to modernize and redesign their living complex, thanks to Eppstein Uhen Architects and The Bentley Company, both headquartered in Milwaukee. Updating the outmoded, dark, institutional-feeling residence halls, all built between 1950 and 1970, topped the list of design team and client concerns.

Eppstein Uhen’s design calls for incorporation of residential design elements, including gabled roofs and Greek Revival pergolas. Interior space renovations offer a softer color palette, and revised floor plans capture more natural light and create a connection to the picturesque landscape. A dormitory-style building for 40 people with multiple four-person rooms has become a family-style home for 20, featuring pods of two-person private rooms. A family-style kitchen and dining room in each building allow for interaction among the close-knit group and eases the staff’s time requirements, which previously included ushering residents to a dining area across campus for meals.

The second phase of the plan calls for renovations of several buildings, which will include a centrally located pharmacy, medical and dental clinics, a hair-care center, a canteen/café, and a bank. In addition, the complex will house a new corporate center for all U.S. and some international service initiatives.

“When completed, the renovations will transform the Watertown Campus into a state-of-the-art cluster of homelike neighborhoods and living areas linked to services and program space,” says Steve Raasch, AIA, Eppstein Uhen project manager. “As architects, we have the unique opportunity to utilize our skills to create wonderful new living environments while also helping to dramatically improve people’s lives in those spaces.”

The architects also take pride in their collaboration with The Bentley Company. The two firms consulted in the conceptual and design development stages, helping to reduce disruptions for residents and staff. “The most challenging aspect of this project has been working in an occupied building that is the home of hundreds of residents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That has required extensive planning and coordination to keep systems running and routes of safe passage throughout the campus,” stated Don Schliepp, project superintendent with Bentley.

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