CASE STUDY

The newly-built Atria Assisted Living and Memory Care overcame the challenge of designing a modern facility that would provide the open spaces today’s seniors expect while also implementing effective smoke and fire protection that would not detract from the center’s aesthetic appeal.

Located in northern New Jersey, the 65,000 sf., 84-unit Assisted Living and Memory Care facility, designed by Meyer Architecture + Interiors, provides a welcoming environment that addresses the design trends of senior living facilities. With a primary focus on wellness, today’s seniors expect their communities to provide many communal spaces where socializing and group activities can take place. Atria was designed to allow the inflow of lots of natural light and a sense of openness by incorporating oversized windows, high ceilings and a large atrium.

However, an atrium presents some specific challenges regarding smoke and fire containment. If a fire were to occur, the openness of the atrium can create what is known as a chimney effect where smoke and fire from the lower level can quickly rise to the upper level and rapidly spread throughout the entire building.

VERTICAL FIRE + SMOKE PROTECTION

As part of Atria’s fire and smoke mitigation strategy, Smoke Guard M2500 Fire + Smoke vertical curtains were integrated into the center’s open concept design. In the event of a fire emergency, the curtains automatically lower creating a protective barrier between the two-story atrium and the adjoining residential hallways and common spaces such as the dining room, sitting rooms and the cafe. With a 2-hour Fire Endurance Rating, the lowered curtains create compartments that contain smoke and fire slowing down its spread long enough to create a path for residents to egress the building and get to safety. Each unit is equipped with an emergency battery that will take over and automatically power the unit for up to 18 hours if primary AC power is disrupted.

The M2500 Fire + Smoke curtains provides a fire and smoke mitigation solution that integrates seamlessly into the design aesthetics of this upscale senior residence and its vibrant community.