This summer, The Selfhelp Home is beginning an important renovation and historical installation project that will refresh several first-floor spaces and create a more welcoming, meaningful experience for residents, families, visitors, and future generations.
The project includes updates to the:
- Lobby and Reception Area
- Elevator Lobby
- Bensinger Room
- Hallway that will become the new Historical Installation
While the finished spaces will be beautiful, construction will bring temporary changes to how people enter and move through the building.
Our team is taking steps to make the process as clear and comfortable as possible, including exterior and interior signage to help direct residents, families, visitors, and staff throughout each phase.
Project Timeline at a Glance
- July 16: Temporary barricades begin going up
- July 20: Demolition begins
- July 22–September 17: Phase 1 work
- Mid-September–November 20: Phase 2 work
- November 11–November 23: Final hallway phase / Phase 2-A
- November 19–December 2: Final inspections and punch list
- December 6: Grand Opening Celebration at The Selfhelp Home
Please note that construction schedules can shift. We will continue to share updates as work progresses.
Phase 1: Back Hallway and Bensinger Room
Expected timing: July 16–September 17
The first phase of construction will focus on the back hallway and Bensinger Room. During this phase:
- The front entrance will remain open.
- The entire rear hallway, connecting the parking lot with the lobby, will be closed.
- Doctors who use the Medical Clinic will be relocated to the 1st Floor Small Conference Room.
- The Bensinger Room will be closed and is expected to remain closed for the duration of the project.
- Access patterns near the Social Hall will shift.
- One main front elevator will remain available.
- The westernmost parking lot entrance will be used for back access, with signage and intercom access available.
Visitors coming through the parking lot will be directed to the most westerly entrance. From there, they will be able to use the intercom to enter the hallway just West of the Social Hall and continue through the Social Hall area toward the front desk or use the elevator near the Library to access resident floors.
During this time, there will still be access from the front entrance to the Social Hall and main elevator, though some pathways may be narrower than usual. Signage will be placed throughout the exterior and interior of the building to help everyone know where to go.
Phase 2: Lobby, Reception, and Elevator Lobby
Expected timing: Mid-September–November 20
After Phase 1, the focus of construction will shift toward the Lobby, Reception Area, and Elevator Lobby.
During this phase:
- The front entrance will be closed.
- The Lobby and Reception areas be closed.
- The larger front elevator will be closed during part of this work.
- The main entrance will temporarily move to the westernmost Argyle entrance / West Garden entrance.
- The back entrance is expected to return to regular use.
- The Social Hall will be accessible from the back hallway.
- Executive Assistant, CEO and Director of Resident Services will have alternate office arrangements
Residents, families, and visitors will be directed around the closed lobby area. For example, residents leaving the dining room may be directed to use the back elevators, travel to the second floor, and cross over as needed.
Clear signage will be posted both outside and inside the building, including directional signs, arrows, and entry instructions. Doors to construction areas will also be closed to help make the correct paths easier to follow.
Phase 2-A: Final Hallway Work
Expected timing: November 11–November 23
A shorter final phase will focus on remaining hallway work near the Social Hall and Bensinger Room area.
During this stage:
- Some hallway access may continue to be adjusted.
- The Bensinger Room will remain closed until the full project is complete.
- Final construction work, cleaning, inspections, and punch list items will begin moving the project toward completion.
Creating a Space for History and Connection
One of the most meaningful parts of this project is the new Historical Installation.
The hallway will become a place where residents, families, visitors, and community members can experience the story of The Selfhelp Home: the people who shaped it, the values that built it, and the legacy that continues today.
For those who wish to support the Historical Installation, giving opportunities remain available. Each gift helps preserve and share the story of Selfhelp for generations to come.
Thank You for Your Patience
We are grateful to our residents, families, visitors, staff, and broader community for their patience and flexibility throughout the renovation.
There may be temporary detours, alternate entrances, elevator changes, and construction activity along the way, but our team will continue working to keep everyone informed and safely directed. Please look for posted signage when visiting, and when in doubt, ask a member of our team for help.
We are excited to watch these spaces take shape and look forward to welcoming everyone into the completed renovation and Historical Installation later this year.
Save the Date: Grand Opening on December 6
Please save the date for the grand opening of the renovation and Historical Installation at The Selfhelp Home on December 6.
More details will be shared soon. We look forward to celebrating this meaningful milestone together.