Bethea
Retirement
Community
A connected household concept that captures the best of care autonomy while enabling shared support and specialization.
RDG partnered with South Carolina Baptist Ministries of Aging to redesign the Bethea Retirement Community in Darlington, South Carolina. From the start, the client's mission was front and center within the design directive - the updated community should be an environment that provides residents opportunities for freedom, faith, fun, friends and fitness. In addition, it was imperative the design theme reflects the southern charm and hospitality of the community's locale. Understanding these key needs, RDG's design solution creates four distinct but connected households, each dedicated to supporting the specific needs of residents, be it short-term rehabilitation, long-term skilled nursing or memory care.
Each household within the renovated Bethea Retirement Community features an intimate dining space, family room and screened-in porch. Residents of all households can utilize the shared amenity spaces, including an ice cream parlor and gathering space and a locally themed state-of-the-art therapy gym, the interior finishes of which pay homage to the "Darlington NASCAR Raceway" with a finish line for residents who complete their therapy session. Wood beams, white wood paneled walls and fireplaces throughout provide a welcoming and home-like feel for residents, family and staff members.