ParkEntree is the first Dutch residential area designed for the active senior. Based on the principles of Senior Smart Living with the core values connecting, enjoying and development. Prevention of loneliness and mutual self-reliance are key. ParkEntree offers lifetime homes in the mid-priced rental and owner-occupied segment, a lounge for people to meet, two communal gardens and a hospitality manager. A living concept that managed to persuade seniors to move to the former Vogelaar district Nieuwland in Schiedam and say goodbye to their familiar, often spacious, ground-floor homes.

ParkEntree is co-creation at its best, because participants were able to share their thoughts on all aspects of living. During the information evenings and co-creation sessions, we gave, jointly with the target group, form and substance to the neighbourhood, residences, the concept of interaction and the facilities. Resulting in a living environment that was very popular among the target group, because it seamlessly met their needs. Allowing us to persuade a target group to move. A target group that was never expected to want to change homes.

ParkEntree is based on the idea behind the community. A living environment specifically designed for active seniors. To prevent loneliness by stimulating interaction and by allowing seniors to live home longer. Seniors can meet and participate in shared activities in the communal lounge and the two courtyards. Vitaal & Zo is responsible for hospitality, supporting the initiatives of the residents, who pay a monthly contribution. The purpose is to enhance social cohesion, prevent loneliness and facilitate mutual self-reliance.

Stakeholder management is essential to be able to develop a healthy neighbourhood and to create support. In case of ParkEntree, this meant collaborating with the adjacent high school for use and management of the rooms, with the gym in the area, with the wellness centre and the retailers’ association. Furthermore, the local stakeholders, such as healthcare providers, influencers and associations, were involved in the creation and promotion of the concept.

Smart living means that residents have a number of smart apps that make their lives just a little easier. ParkEntree offers a home automation system, keyless entry, smart, remotely controlled lighting, a smart thermostat and ultra-fast glass fibre internet. The residences are ground-level and therefore easily adaptable to cater all phases of life. To allow residents to live at home even if they are immobile.