Insights from Environments for Aging: Building with Strategy, Experience, and Confidence

Great conversations and even stronger insights came out of this year’s Environments for Aging Conference last month in Phoenix. Our President, Eric Schaefer, joined industry leaders for a fireside chat titled “From Dirt to Dollars: A Candid Conversation on Construction Strategy & Execution,” diving into the realities of delivering senior living projects in today’s market.

Moderated by Isaac Wallace of Erdman, the panel brought together a diverse group of construction leaders, including Lucas McCurdy of The Bridge Group Construction, Rebecca Randolph of Brinkmann Constructors, and Schaefer General Contracting’s own Eric Schaefer—each offering unique perspectives shaped by hands-on experience across the senior living sector.

At Schaefer, senior living has been a core market sector for more than four decades of our 70+ year history. That depth of experience brings a practical, real-world perspective that Eric was able to share throughout the discussion, offering meaningful insights grounded in active project delivery.

Key Themes from the Conversation

• Cost certainty in an uncertain market — balancing predictability, flexibility, and real-world constraints
• Speed to market without sacrificing quality — navigating financing pressures, labor challenges, and timelines
• Renovation vs. new construction — understanding risk, disruption, and long-term value
• The hidden conditions behind existing buildings — uncovering risks early to avoid costly surprises later

A clear takeaway from the discussion and consistent message among the speakers is that the strongest projects are built on early collaboration. Engaging construction partners from the outset creates better alignment, more informed decisions, and greater predictability throughout the process.

A Legacy of Senior Living Expertise

Since delivering our first renovation in 1982, Schaefer has built a trusted reputation for creating environments that balance safety, performance, and compassion. From independent and assisted living to skilled nursing, memory care, and continuing care retirement communities, we understand that these spaces are more than buildings—they’re home.

Today, our work spans a diverse portfolio of ground-up communities, large-scale renovations, and campus enhancements across the country. From newly completed projects to active developments, like the recently celebrated upgrades and renovations at Lakeport Square in Leesburg, FL, or the currently in-progress Trilogy Cedar Creek in Lowell, IN, our project experience reflects our ability to navigate complex environments while maintaining a strong focus on resident experience and operational continuity.

Our team brings deep expertise in:

• Occupied renovations and phased construction
• Ground-up community development
• Minimizing disruption to residents and staff
• Navigating complex regulatory and operational requirements

Across every project, our approach remains consistent with thoughtful planning, proactive coordination, and a commitment to delivering spaces that serve today’s needs while adapting for the future.

That’s how we continue Building Confidence in the communities that matter most. Check out more of our senior living portfolio here or connect with us about a senior living project you’re navigating.