St. Michael’s has been privately owned for fifteen years. Conveniently located on a busy street in downtown San Rafael, there are numerous businesses within walking distance. Ambulatory residents make their home on the building’s second floor. A gated stucco wall secures the front of the facility, hiding a surprising oasis of lush plants and a gurgling fountain. Once inside, the busy thoroughfare on the opposite side of the wall seems worlds away.
The glass door at the entrance hints at the warm and colorful interior décor. We mistakenly assumed that a designer must have planned the stylish space, but soon learned that the taste and craftsmanship are marks of the owner. The owner’s mother is also a resident of the facility, a testament to the excellent care at St. Michael’s.
The common rooms and dining areas are attractively furnished. A fireplace adds a cozy quality to the living room, which also functions as an activity space. The dining room hosts a gorgeous fountain that works well with the beautifully tiled floors. The bedrooms have a modest décor and fewer updated features, but are very well-kept. On the first floor, several of the bedrooms look out onto a patio garden. The facility is well-maintained and clean.
Residents seem to enjoy the food, which is made mostly from fresh-frozen ingredients. During our visit, the atmosphere was lively and residents were engaged in conversation with one another. When we asked how they liked the services at St. Michael’s, we received nothing but positive responses.
