Life plan community continues growth with updated facilities, memory care and resident services
By Jane Bartnett
Bay Village, Sarasota County’s only accredited life plan community, celebrated its 50th anniversary last fall, two years after completing a 2023, $17 million renovation that transformed the 600,000-square-foot, 12-floor residential facility. With 269 independent living units, along with its separate Tides memory care unit, Bay Village is home to more than 400 seniors. A nonprofit corporation, it was founded by Pine Shores Presbyterian Church in 1975.
The bright, welcoming, coastal-inspired design that carries throughout the building’s interiors was executed by the award-winning architectural firm SFCS of Roanoke, Virginia, specialists in senior, assisted and independent living spaces.
“We wanted to create dynamic areas where our residents can socialize and feel at home, and for our interiors to mirror Florida’s coastal environment and reflect the beauty of Siesta Key and Sarasota,” said Bay Village CEO Eric Nichols. Senior Housing News honored the project in 2023.
The extensive renovation created a brighter, more contemporary look for all common areas and received strong approval from residents, visitors and staff.
The former third-floor rooftop patio was reimagined, fully enclosed and transformed into a state-of-the-art wellness center, including a gym, a spacious fitness studio with floor-to-ceiling mirrors for classes such as chair yoga, and a full-service salon.
“The wellness center features new HUR SmartTouch exercise equipment designed specifically for seniors,” Nichols said. The built-in memory activates when a resident swipes a fob. “The machine remembers where you left off,” he said.
The outdoor pool, used for swimming and water aerobics, was upgraded to saltwater and includes poolside dining. Landscaped walking trails provide additional opportunities for residents to stay active and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Dining is another highlight, with seven private and public options available. Private dining rooms for groups of six to 24 can be reserved. For casual fare, the Marker 48 Grill is open, while The Coffee Bean offers grab-and-go options. The Salty Nichol features a full bar and serves light meals.
“We wanted residents to enjoy meals or drinks with friends and family in an upscale, restaurant-style setting,” Nichols said. He noted that cinema-themed dinners and wine-pairing events are part of Bay Village’s culinary programming.
For convenience items and gifts, residents can visit the on-site Marketplace shop.
“We believe in lifelong learning and social engagement,” Nichols said, pointing to classes, special interest groups and organized outings. “Our library is staffed by volunteers and maintains an excellent collection, and the Pen Pals program with Wilkinson Elementary School is very popular.” During the school year, students visit and perform choral programs. Transportation is also provided for shopping, theater and other activities.
Making the Move to Bay Village
Most residents move to Bay Village in their late 70s or early 80s and sign a life care contract.
“Residents do not own their apartments,” Nichols said. “They pay an entrance fee that is amortized over four years. In addition to monthly service fees, they have access to all amenities.” He added that fees may increase if additional health care services are needed.
Bay Village offers on-site nursing care. Assisted living residents receive help with daily activities, 24-hour medical monitoring and weekly housekeeping.
Skilled nursing is also available, along with an on-site rehabilitation center approved by Medicare and Medicaid that offers physical, occupational and speech therapy. Residents may also access home health care. A medical director oversees care, and a nurse practitioner visits most days.
Fee Structure
“Residents commit to a fee structure ranging from $49,900 to $500,000,” Nichols said. Units include studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments, with pricing based on size and location. An in-house design team assists new residents with finishes and upgrades, including paint, flooring and countertops.
Residents receive biweekly housekeeping services, and service and emotional support animals are permitted with proper documentation.
Outdoor parking is provided at no cost, while garage and carport parking are available for an additional fee.
Each independent living resident pays a monthly dining fee that provides access to all dining options. Unused portions do not carry over to the following month.
Tides Memory Care Unit
In 2023, Bay Village opened Tides, a 14-unit stand-alone memory care center offering independent and assisted living services on campus. The $7 million project was funded by the Bay Village Endowment Fund and designed by SFCS Architects, mirroring the coastal theme of the main building.
The facility has been recognized by Environment for Aging for excellence in new construction for senior living.
Down Under Thrift Store
The Down Under Thrift Store, located in the building’s lower level, is open to the public every other Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. All items are donated by residents, and proceeds benefit the Bay Village Endowment Fund.
Tony and Mary Beth Mediavilla, residents and volunteer co-managers, oversee operations. “In 2025, the Down Under brought in $54,000 in revenue,” Mary Beth said.
Items for sale include furniture, lamps, kitchenware, artwork, jewelry, sporting goods and clothing. Unsold items are eventually offered for free. Buyers must remove all purchased items, including furniture. In March and April, the store will be open March 6 and 20, and April 3 and 17. Cash and checks are accepted; all sales are final.
Bay Village is located at 8400 Vamo Road, Sarasota. For more information, visit bayvillage.org or call 941-966-5611. Tours are available by appointment.
