Drum Hill Assisted Living Facility
Peekskill, New York
Architect: Douglas Stewart
Products: Framed-In Roof Monitors with 72 Fixed Skylights
From a High School to an Assisted Living Facility
Several years ago, Peekskill High School was renovated and transformed into Drum Hill Assisted Living. Douglas Stewart, architect of Drum Hill, recognized the vital need for natural lighting for the elderly residents. As a result, seventy-two VELUX® skylights were incorporated into the design at Drum Hill. Skylights were the only solution to providing daylight at the core of the building.
Benefits of Natural Daylight for the Elderly
Natural daylight has multiple well-documented benefits affecting all of us. Full spectrum light is the best weapon against depression, mood swings and Seasonal Affective Disorder (“SAD”). Moreover, natural daylight becomes even more vital for the elderly. As they grow older, their eyesight begins to fail. As a result, falls are the leading cause of injuries in assisted living communities.
Skylights: The Extra Touch for Improved Vision
Drum Hill owners and designers recognized this issue. The roof monitors with seventy-two VELUX skylights installed over the main atrium, three floors above ground level, provide a flood of natural light to the dining area, lounge and hallways leading to the resident’s individual apartments. Not only do skylights provide the necessary light for improved vision, but they also provide drama and a view of the deep blue sky!
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