The new facility will feature a large atrium, 332-seat multipurpose room, an intimate theater-style presentation room, expanded gift shop and a new welcome center, according to Danielle Webb, Colonial’s corporate director of marketing and public relations.
The building, which will be a replica of the original Berkeley Plantation, will be constructed between the Coach House Tavern & Grille and the Butterfield Conference Room area, where the temporary connector tunnel is now located. Colonial officials said once completed, it will be “the jewel of the campus.”
The Manor House concept was part of the master site plan for Berkeley Square created in 1988. Officials said this will be the most transformative project the Berkeley Square campus has ever seen.
“The Manor House is something that our residents have wanted for so very long,” Webb said of the project, which has a tentative spring 2012 completion date. “It is going to make a tremendous difference for all the folks who live there and who visit there.”
The Coach House, also located on campus, will receive an upgrade as part of the expansion, too, Webb said. Additions to the restaurant will include extra seating to accommodate up to 70 more guests, an expanded patio area, larger kitchen, a fireplace and administrative offices.
“The Coach House is a great fine dining spot. In expanding, we will be able to increase revenue growth and memberships” Webb said, noting the restaurant already has between 300 and 350 individual, family and corporate memberships.
Colonial officials said Carruthers’ donation is the most significant gift in Berkeley Square’s 22-year history and will enhance the quality of life for residents, visitors and staff.
“Without any doubt, the opening of the Donna Y. Carruthers Manor House will represent the most significant event in Berkeley Square’s history since the ground breaking ceremonies 22 years ago,” said Jeff Thurmond, president and CEO of Colonial.
The Carruthers family’s “generosity is tremendous, not just to Colonial, but to the entire community,” Webb said. “They make so many things possible that would not be possible without them. We are very, very thankful.”
Berkeley Square is a continuing care retirement campus, located on Hamilton’s west side that houses about 200 residents. It’s campus consists of independent living, assisted living, special and health care units among other amenities. It is owned and operated by Colonial, a nonprofit organization.
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