
Touchmark at Emerald Lake: A New Benchmark for Luxury Senior Living in McKinney, Texas
The vision for a truly exceptional retirement experience in West McKinney, Texas, is now a vibrant reality. What began as an ambitious concept for a “suburban oasis on 70 acres surrounding an 11-acre spring-fed private lake” designed specifically for retirees, has blossomed into Touchmark at Emerald Lake – a groundbreaking senior living community poised to redefine luxury and comprehensive care in the region.
As site work actively progresses, anticipation builds for the grand opening in 2023. This eagerly awaited development is meticulously crafted to cater to individuals embarking on their next chapter, offering an unparalleled blend of sophisticated living, personalized support, and an active, engaging lifestyle. Touchmark at Emerald Lake is more than just a place to reside; it’s a meticulously planned community where residents can thrive amidst natural beauty and state-of-the-art amenities.
Touchmark’s Legacy: Expertise Meets Texas Charm
Behind this pioneering project is Touchmark, a distinguished Beaverton, Oregon-based company renowned for its forty-year legacy in developing, building, and operating full-service retirement communities across North America. With a strong presence in nine U.S. states and Alberta, Canada, Touchmark has consistently set high standards for senior living, prioritizing resident well-being, innovative design, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
The McKinney location marks a significant milestone for the company as its inaugural venture into the Texas market. First introduced in 2019, Touchmark at Emerald Lake is strategically positioned near the southwest intersection of Virginia Parkway and Hardin Boulevard, offering convenient access to local amenities while retaining a tranquil, secluded feel. This expansion into Texas represents not only a geographic growth for Touchmark but also a testament to the region’s appeal for sophisticated senior living options.
Marcus Breuer, CEO of Touchmark, expressed the profound significance of this project, stating, “Opening our first community in Texas, and this location in particular with its lake and surrounding natural beauty, presents an opportunity to build the largest and most exciting project in our 40-year history.” This statement underscores the company’s deep commitment and enthusiasm for creating a flagship community that truly embodies their decades of expertise.
An Idyllic Lakeside Oasis: Nature-Inspired Living
At the heart of Touchmark at Emerald Lake’s design philosophy lies its magnificent natural setting. The community encompasses 70 sprawling acres, anchored by a pristine 11-acre spring-fed private lake. This unique feature is not merely a backdrop but an integral component of the lifestyle offered to residents. “The lake really does provide the focal point for the design and lifestyle offerings,” noted Marcus Breuer, highlighting its central role in shaping the community’s character.
The development is thoughtfully designed to maximize engagement with this stunning natural environment. Residents will enjoy beautifully landscaped lakeside trails, perfect for leisurely strolls, morning jogs, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Expansive event lawns provide ideal spaces for outdoor gatherings, social events, and recreational activities, fostering a strong sense of community. Furthermore, an abundance of open-air dining and entertainment venues will allow residents to savor meals and enjoy social occasions amidst the refreshing breeze and scenic views of the lake, making every moment a delightful experience.
This commitment to integrating nature into daily life creates a serene and invigorating environment, promoting physical activity, mental well-being, and a profound connection to the outdoors – key elements for a fulfilling retirement.
Diverse Living Options Tailored to Every Need
Touchmark at Emerald Lake is envisioned as a comprehensive 400-home community, offering a broad spectrum of living options designed to meet varying needs and preferences. The initial phase of development will feature 271 thoughtfully designed residences, ensuring a perfect fit for every individual.
For those seeking an active and independent lifestyle, there will be 149 elegant independent living homes. These residences are crafted with modern aesthetics and convenience in mind, providing residents with the freedom to pursue their interests while enjoying access to all community amenities and services. Additionally, six charming casitas, or duplex residences, will offer a blend of privacy and community engagement, perfect for those desiring a more secluded yet connected living experience.
Recognizing the diverse needs of its residents, Touchmark at Emerald Lake will also provide exceptional assisted living options. A total of 84 assisted living residences will be available, offering personalized support and care in a comfortable and dignified environment. A particularly notable feature within the assisted living category are 32 specialized studios meticulously designed for individuals living with specific physical challenges, such as Parkinson’s disease, or those experiencing early cognitive impairment. These studios are tailored to enhance safety, comfort, and independence, demonstrating Touchmark’s commitment to thoughtful, person-centered care.
Furthermore, the community will include 32 dedicated memory care residences. These secure and supportive environments are designed with specialized programming and trained staff to provide compassionate care for residents living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, ensuring their comfort, safety, and engagement in meaningful activities. This comprehensive array of living options guarantees that residents can age in place, transitioning seamlessly between care levels as their needs evolve, all within the familiar and supportive environment of Touchmark at Emerald Lake.
Unparalleled Amenities and a Vibrant Lifestyle
Beyond the initial offerings, a future phase of Touchmark at Emerald Lake promises to further elevate the resident experience. This expansion will introduce additional residences and a state-of-the-art health and fitness center, serving as a hub for wellness and recreation. The fitness center will feature a modern gym, a refreshing swimming pool for exercise and relaxation, and a luxurious spa offering a range of therapeutic treatments. A full-service salon will cater to personal grooming needs, while restaurant-style dining venues will provide exquisite culinary experiences, offering diverse menus prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The emphasis on an active and engaging lifestyle is evident throughout the community. Residents will have opportunities to participate in a wide array of programs and activities, from fitness classes and educational seminars to social gatherings and cultural events. The community aims to foster intellectual curiosity, physical vitality, and strong social connections, ensuring that every day at Touchmark at Emerald Lake is filled with purpose and joy. The integrated approach to health, wellness, and social engagement is designed to enrich the lives of residents, allowing them to pursue their passions and discover new ones.
Rooted in Community: A Partnership with McKinney
Touchmark’s commitment to creating a community that genuinely enriches lives extends to its integration within the vibrant city of McKinney. The land for this significant development was acquired from the Turrentine family, who have been deeply active and respected members of the McKinney community for more than 70 years. This acquisition represents a transfer of stewardship, ensuring the property’s natural beauty and expansive green spaces are preserved for future generations.
Kendra Lackey, President of Touchmark’s development and construction division, a native of Plano, highlighted this commitment: “We are grateful to the Turrentine family for preserving this expansive property with its vast green spaces and lake, and we’re honored to carry that commitment forward to future generations and create a community that enriches people’s lives.” This sentiment underscores Touchmark’s philosophy of respectful development and its dedication to becoming a valuable and contributing part of the McKinney fabric.
The decision to establish Touchmark at Emerald Lake in McKinney reflects the city’s growing appeal as a desirable location for retirees. McKinney offers a charming blend of historic character, modern amenities, a strong sense of community, and easy access to the broader North Texas region, making it an ideal setting for a premier senior living destination.

A Team of Visionaries and Experts
Bringing a project of this magnitude and vision to life requires the collaboration of highly skilled and experienced professionals. Touchmark has assembled a leading team of experts to ensure every detail of Touchmark at Emerald Lake is executed with precision and excellence.
Dallas-based Andres Construction Services serves as the project’s general contractor, overseeing the intricate construction process with a focus on quality and timely completion. Their expertise is complemented by Three Living Architecture, who are responsible for the overall architectural design, creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. StudioSIX5, an acclaimed interior design firm, is crafting the elegant and comfortable interiors, ensuring that every residence and common area reflects a commitment to luxury and warmth.
Kimley-Horn, a reputable civil engineering firm, is managing the essential infrastructure and site planning, while Talley Associates, a distinguished landscape designer, is enhancing the natural beauty of the property, designing captivating outdoor spaces that harmoniously blend with the lake and surrounding environment. This collaborative effort by a consortium of industry leaders underscores Touchmark’s dedication to delivering a senior living community of unparalleled quality and distinction.

Anticipation Builds for 2023 Completion
With site work well underway and an expected completion in 2023, Touchmark at Emerald Lake is rapidly approaching its opening. The excitement is palpable for prospective residents and the McKinney community alike, as this landmark development prepares to welcome its first residents.
Touchmark at Emerald Lake is set to become more than just a retirement community; it will be a vibrant, supportive, and engaging neighborhood where seniors can enjoy a truly enriched quality of life. From its picturesque lakeside setting and diverse range of living options to its world-class amenities and dedicated team of professionals, this community is poised to become the premier destination for senior living in North Texas, fulfilling its promise as a true suburban oasis.
For those seeking an exceptional retirement experience that combines luxury, comfort, care, and an active lifestyle, Touchmark at Emerald Lake in McKinney, Texas, represents a compelling and unparalleled choice. It is a testament to thoughtful planning, expert execution, and a deep understanding of what it means to truly live well in one’s golden years.