Providence’s newest long-term care home, St. Vincent’s: Heather, is ending the year with major progress on construction. Crews have finished preparing the site for the next stage – building upward! – by completing the groundwork, including shoring, excavation down to grade and the final shotcrete work. This means vertical construction on the 13-storey building can begin.
Earlier this fall, a tower crane was installed, and the first concrete pour created a strong base for the footings that will support the structure. Behind the scenes, the team is refining the interior design and equipment planning is well underway. Next year, a mock-up of key spaces will open to help staff picture what the new home will look like.
When it opens in 2029, St. Vincent’s: Heather will offer a new approach to long-term care:
- 20 households across 10 floors, each home to 12 residents in private rooms with ensuite bathrooms.
- Shared living, dining, kitchen and laundry spaces to create the warmth and familiarity of a traditional home – plus each household will have a terrace for fresh air and natural light.
- Some suites have connecting doors so couples and families can stay together.
Supporting people living with dementia
St. Vincent’s: Heather builds on the success of Providence Living at The Views in Comox, Canada’s first public long-term care home designed as a dementia village. This person-centred model is now coming to an urban setting.
“We are transforming outdated institutional care with the dignity, respect and freedom of a true home,” says Mark Blandford, President & CEO of Providence Living. “This new 240-bed community is enriched by a model of care that allows residents to direct their own lives, surrounded by comfort, everyday routines and human connection.”
Instead of rigid routines, St. Vincent’s: Heather will focus on emotional connection, personal choice and community integration. Residents will be encouraged to take part in familiar activities like cooking and socializing, helping to foster independence and belonging.
What’s coming to St. Vincent’s: Heather
The new home will also include:
- A Catholic chapel and sacred space for Indigenous ceremonial practices
- A secure courtyard, library, theatre, and café/grocery store
- A 37-space childcare centre to support intergenerational connection
- On-site primary care, therapy rooms, and hairdressing services
Located on the historic site of St. Vincent’s Hospital, which served Vancouver for 65 years, St. Vincent’s: Heather represents a bold step forward in seniors’ care: one that prioritizes freedom, dignity and joy for every resident.
Click here to learn more about this transformative project.
