Reimaging Wellness Through Connection and Belonging
The Kirk Gibson Foundation envisioned their new Center for Parkinson’s Wellness as more than a healthcare or fitness facility. They set out to create a safe space where individuals living with Parkinson’s and their care partners could come together, at no cost, to participate in therapeutic programs, exercise, and feel a genuine sense of belonging in the face of an often isolating disease.
With this mission in mind, the Foundation sought a team who understood how every detail could shape the way people feel and interact, and who could help tell a story rooted in inclusivity, dignity, and human connection. In partnership with Steelcase, Gensler, and PCI-Dailey Company, NBS provided furnishings tailored to the members’ unique needs.
“NBS’s innovative and inclusive design approach, blended with the Foundation’s vision, has created an environment that inspires hope and resilience for all who navigate the challenges of Parkinson’s disease,” stated Brenda Lanker, Director of Community Outreach for the Kirk Gibson Foundation.
What makes the Center especially meaningful is that it was shaped by the very people it serves. Members of the Parkinson’s community were actively involved in the process, testing furniture, sharing feedback, and helping influence decisions that would ultimately impact their daily experience.
The space was intentionally designed to feel bright, welcoming, and energizing, far from the cold, sterile atmosphere often associated with healthcare settings. The Center draws inspiration from modern workplace environments while layering in warmth through soft textures, calming color palettes, and natural wood elements. Thoughtful furniture choices, like stable seating with supportive arms and options for varied postures, empower members to move confidently and safely, preserving a sense of independence that is so vital to their quality of life.
Supporting a range of programming, the first floor features a variety of gyms and studios, as well as a café and central gathering area for connection and socialization. On the second floor, a walking track encourages movement while overlooking the vibrant community below.
“From concepts to design and installation, our collaboration with NBS was exceptional,” said Steve Annear, CEO of the Kirk Gibson Foundation. “This relationship has been important to achieving a community Center where people with Parkinson’s, and their caregivers, feel a sense of belonging, friendship, and support.”
Today, the Kirk Gibson Center stands as a one-of-a-kind facility in the region, and a lifeline for many. By prioritizing connection, accessibility, and human-centered design, the project proves that physical space can do more than support treatment; it can restore dignity, spark hope, and profoundly change how people live their lives.
Learn more about the Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson’s Wellness: kirkgibsoncenter.org/
