Wold Architects & Engineers has completed a new memory care wing at Valley Hi Nursing & Rehabilitation for McHenry County, expanding the community’s capacity to serve residents in need of long-term, specialized care.
McHenry County Valley Hi is a 120-bed county-owned nursing home west of Woodstock, IL. Wold assisted in designing an added dining room, kitchen and support spaces to accommodate a new memory care unit. The project features a secure walking path, indoor and outdoor gathering spaces and comforting nooks for afternoon naps or conversations with friends. Residents’ rooms also were updated with interior finishes, lighting and furnishing.
“This project is a great example of how design can support both clinical care and personal dignity,” said Wold Architects & Engineers Partner Roger Schroepfer, AIA, LEED AP, BD+C. “From the layout of the rooms to the access to natural light and outdoor space, every detail reflects a commitment to resident autonomy and safety. It’s been a privilege to help McHenry County deliver this critical service with care and intention.”
The new wing connects seamlessly to the existing facility and includes direct access to protected outdoor spaces, allowing residents to safely enjoy fresh air and natural surroundings. The interior layout fosters independence and engagement, featuring inviting shared spaces that evoke a residential feel rather than an institutional one.
The project also responds to broader trends in long-term care by incorporating environments that reduce stress and support staff in delivering personalized, day-to-day care.
The project reflects Wold’s continued focus on delivering healthcare and senior living environments that are both operationally efficient and deeply human-centered.
