Celebrating 25 Years of Redefining Retirement Living in BC 

Twenty-five years ago, PARC set out to redefine what retirement communities could look like. 

The inspiration began in Switzerland, when our founder, Rainer Müller, helped his mother move into a retirement residence. What he thought was a practical decision became a powerful reminder of the difference connection, purpose and community can make in people’s lives. Surrounded by new friends, engaging activities and a vibrant space, his mother’s life became richer, more connected and more fulfilling. 

That experience changed Müller’s thinking about the nature of retirement living. Rather than simply providing housing, he envisioned communities that help older adults live healthy, active lives well into their golden years. 

His vision became what is now a proudly BC-based, family-owned company with seven retirement residences across the province. From our first residence in North Vancouver 25 years ago, to our newest in Kelowna, PARC has spent a quarter century creating thoughtfully designed spaces where older adults thrive. 

A BC family business with a people-first approach 

From the beginning, PARC has believed that retirement living can enhance life – not limit it. 

Every residence is designed around the way independent older adults want to live: enjoying exceptional food, maintaining their health, staying socially connected and remaining engaged with the communities around them. 

Over the past quarter century, PARC has developed six purpose-built residences and welcomed one additional community into the family. Along the way, PARC has continually refined its approach by listening to residents, learning from experience and evolving alongside the changing needs of seniors and their families. 

While each PARC residence reflects the character of its neighbourhood, they all share the same commitment to creating welcoming environments where residents enjoy each day to the fullest. 

Supporting active living every day 

At the heart of every PARC community is the PARC Active Living™ program, built around four pillars: physical fitness, social pursuits, emotional health and nutritious meals.  

These pillars shape everyday life within each residence. Residents enjoy chef-prepared meals, senior-focused fitness classes, wellness resources and a wide variety of social programs that encourage connection, purpose and lifelong learning. 

The communities themselves are also intentionally designed to make everyday living easier and more enjoyable. Convenient locations place residents close to shops, parks and neighbourhood amenities, while purposefully designed buildings prioritize comfort, accessibility and sustainability. 

The result is an environment where residents can continue pursuing the activities they enjoy and experience brand new ones, all while building meaningful relationships and feeling a true sense of belonging. 

Building communities with sustainability in mind 

Thoughtful design has always been central to PARC’s approach to retirement living. That includes creating communities that are not only welcoming and comfortable for residents but also designed with long-term environmental responsibility in mind. 

Across PARC residences, sustainability is incorporated through features and practices that support energy efficiency, resource conservation and healthier indoor environments. This commitment is particularly evident in four PARC communities that have achieved LEED® Gold certification: Cristalina PARC in Kelowna, Oceana PARC in White Rock, Westerleigh PARC in West Vancouver and Cedar Springs PARC in North Vancouver. This recognition reflects a commitment to thoughtful building practices that prioritize energy efficiency, resource conservation and a healthier indoor environment. 

PARC believes that sustainability is about more than the buildings themselves. It is part of a broader commitment to creating communities where residents can live well while contributing positively to the neighbourhoods and environment around them. 

Investing in stronger communities across BC 

For PARC, creating exceptional retirement residences has always meant being an active participant in the neighbourhoods where PARC is located, ensuring that organizations in the broader community are supported to enhance the lives of all seniors in the community. 

Across BC, PARC is an active community member, partnering with local organizations, charities, businesses and community groups to support initiatives that strengthen local regions and bring people together. From events and sponsorships to opportunities for employees and residents to share their time, talents and experiences, we are active participants in the neighbourhoods we call home. 

This commitment reflects a simple belief: strong communities are built when people come together. By fostering connection both within our residences and beyond their walls, we’re helping to create places where residents, local seniors, neighbours and community partners can feel a true sense of belonging. 

Looking forward to the next 25 years 

Celebrating 25 years is an opportunity to reflect on how far PARC has come – and to look ahead. 

As new generations of older adults embrace new possibilities for retirement, we remain committed to evolving alongside them while staying true to the values that inspired the company from its inception: independence, community, wellness and purposeful living. 

It’s a legacy that began with one family’s experience and continues today in our independent living communities across BC, helping residents embrace each new chapter with confidence, connection and joy. 

To learn more about life at PARC and explore our communities across British Columbia, connect with our team today.