“You never have a second chance to make a first impression.”
Whether it was Will Rogers or Oscar Wilde who first said this, or possibly someone else, the saying holds true for communities like ours, just as it does for people.
Naturally, we set out to create a visually appealing community, but we also wanted it to feel warm and welcoming, like home. And, it would have to accommodate the needs of those who would live here without seeming overtly functional.
We began our search for a senior living design firm that shared our vision for bringing luxurious assisted living and memory care to the Encino area.
A Synergistic Partnership From the Start
We were exceptionally fortunate to find Abbi Hepworth, founder and managing partner of AMH Design.
Initially, we were impressed by the portfolio of work Abbi and her team have established in senior living interior design. Then, as our collaboration got underway, we grew even more excited about working with them.
As a result, Abbi and her team brought our concept to life in superb fashion.
Delving Into The Vered’s Interior Design
The following interview with Abbi Hepworth will give you some insight into how The Vered’s interior design came together. Her responses have been lightly edited.
What was your overall goal in designing The Vered’s interiors?
At AMH Design, we believe that great design has the power to shape not only spaces but also daily experiences. When we partnered with Momentum Senior Living on The Vered, we knew this project was about more than creating beautiful interiors. It was about building a lifestyle.
Inspired by old Hollywood Regency glamor with a fresh, California twist, The Vered reflects both the character of its neighborhood and the needs of today’s seniors.
What kind of first impression does The Vered make?
From the outside, The Vered makes a bold statement with its refined, contemporary architecture softened by lush landscaping.
As soon as you step inside, the interiors feel like a boutique hotel, sophisticated but welcoming. High-quality finishes, elegant details and thoughtful use of light make the first impression one of dignity and comfort.
It communicates right away that this is a community designed with both style and care at the forefront.
How did you choose The Vered’s predominant design elements?
When we began, we looked closely at Encino itself. With Encino’s proximity to major movie studios, the local architecture is often reminiscent of the Hollywood of yesteryear. We wanted to honor that cultural backdrop by incorporating the Hollywood Regency style — elevated, glamorous, but still approachable.
Because The Vered is located in Southern California, we layered that style with a lighter, coastal vibe: bright, airy spaces, warm finishes and a relaxed elegance.
The goal was to create a community that feels both distinctive to Encino and timeless in its design.
How do The Vered’s interior colors and textures influence residents’ well-being?
Along with the elegant detailing, rich materials and a touch of glamor, we layered in elements that support comfort and daily living.
Corridors use color as a wayfinding tool: Each floor has its own palette and artwork theme so residents can easily identify where they live. Fabrics were kept textural but simple to feel residential and not overwhelming.
In key amenity spaces like the wellness center and activity rooms, we introduced richer colors and patterns to spark creativity and engagement.
Overall, warm neutrals and natural materials like wood and stone keep the environment grounded, calming and homelike.
How do specific design elements at The Vered enhance accessibility?
Our team started with what we know best: designing specifically for senior living. Every component we selected needed to support safety, comfort and accessibility.
For example, flooring transitions were minimized to reduce tripping hazards, and slip-resistant finishes were specified throughout the amenity spaces.
Hardware is easy to operate, lighting is layered to reduce glare, and pathways are wide and intuitive.
We also curated every fabric and furniture piece with seniors in mind. Upholstery was selected from lines made specifically for senior living, with added finishes for durability, cleanability and long-term performance.
Furniture was chosen to be both elegant and ergonomic. For example, chairs with 19-inch seat heights and firmer cushions make it easier for residents to sit down and stand up independently.
Together, these thoughtful details ensure that every space is not only beautiful, but also truly livable.
Are there design elements that encourage residents to socialize and connect?
Absolutely. The building itself has a smaller footprint, which encouraged us to be intentional with every inch. That actually created a wonderful sense of connection; spaces overlap and flow into each other, naturally encouraging interaction.
For example, the bistro sits right at the heart of the lobby, drawing residents out of their apartments and into the energy of the community.
We also designed open, light-filled spaces like the Sky Lounge and dining venues to host group gatherings. The outdoor courtyards, both for memory care and assisted living, provide ample room for programs as well as casual encounters.
It’s about creating opportunities for residents to cross paths, whether through structured activities or spontaneous conversations.
How do the assisted living design elements differ from those in the memory care spaces?
For assisted living, we focused on independence. Apartments include a kitchen, comfortable layouts and direct access to amenities so residents can enjoy as much freedom as possible.
Memory care, on the other hand, is about familiarity, ease and safety. Colors are soothing and wayfinding is clear, with lighted memory boxes outside each resident’s door to help with recognition.
The memory care spaces are organized in circular layouts to prevent residents from getting lost, and secure outdoor courtyards provide safe access to nature. The goal is comfort, reassurance and engagement in a supportive environment.
Which of the latest senior living design trends did your team incorporate at The Vered?
One of the biggest trends we’ve embraced at The Vered is hospitality-inspired living. Residents today want more than just a place to live. They want experiences.
That’s why you’ll find amenities you’d expect in a boutique hotel: a rooftop Sky Lounge, theater, bistro, wellness spaces and vibrant dining venues.
These aren’t just beautiful spaces. They’re designed to foster community, engagement and a lifestyle that feels exciting and fulfilling.
Any other thoughts you’d like to share?
Designing The Vered was about striking a balance: honoring Encino’s rich Hollywood heritage while creating a senior living community that feels fresh, functional and forward-looking.
Our goal was to give residents not just a safe and comfortable home, but a place where they can thrive — socially, emotionally and physically.
We’re proud to have shaped a space where every detail supports a vibrant lifestyle, and where design truly makes a difference in daily living.
What Others Are Saying About The Vered
Now that The Vered is close to opening, future residents and their families are sharing their thoughts with us.
“Welcome to The Vered. A beautiful, colorful place for fun and friendships.”
- Irene Jacobson, a future resident
“As I help my mother transition into this next chapter of her life, I could not imagine a more thoughtful or inspiring place than The Vered. Every detail has been designed with such care, from the bright, welcoming spaces to the many amenities that bring joy and comfort to daily living.
But what has touched me the most is the genuine warmth and dedication of the people who work there. They’ve created not just a beautiful community, but a true home where dignity, connection and meaning are fostered every day.”
- Andrew Pascal, a future resident’s son
Can We Make a Good Impression on You?
If you’re exploring assisted living or memory care options for someone you care about, we encourage you to schedule a visit to our community. We’ll be glad to show you around The Vered and answer your questions.
To make an appointment, you can use our brief form to contact us or call 818.450.3120.