Designing the Ute Elder Village

KEPHART is excited to announce our involvement in the design of the Ute Elder Village, a 40-unit assisted living community that will be built on the Ute Reservation in Fort Duchesne, Utah.

In Ute culture, Elders are traditionally held in the highest regard and are considered to be bearers of wisdom. Over the years, this ideology has begun to diminish, both amongst Tribe members and across America. The community name, Ute Elder Village, was inspired by the idea of restoring this status and helping Tribe members appreciate the many gifts that come with age.

The community will not only provide much needed senior housing for the aging Ute Tribe members, but will also include a clinic for dialysis treatment. Currently, the reservation lacks any such facilities, forcing seniors and dialysis patients to receive care off the reservation where Ute culture and values are not well respected. The Elder Village will allow Ute values to be upheld during care. The community will also have spaces for the exchange of Tribal cultural information so the entire community can appreciate their rich heritage.

KEPHART looks forward to teaming with Cappella Living Solutions, who will operate the village. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2021.

Check out some of our design inspiration: