The Riviera’s Grand Opening! Luxury Senior Residence in Potomac Yard

Alexandria, VA — Under clear spring skies in the vibrant and fast-growing Potomac Yard neighborhood, community leaders, residents, and local business partners gathered this week to celebrate the official ribbon-cutting and grand opening of The Riviera Alexandria, a luxury independent living community designed to blend comfort, care, and connection.

The ceremony opened with remarks from Alexandria Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Joe Haggerty, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of community collaboration. Both The Riviera and its neighboring sister property, The Landing, are active Chamber members.

“This incredible facility is a very, very positive sign in the community,” Haggerty said. “It allows people to stay close to their families and remain part of the place they love.” He emphasized the seamless continuum of care between the two communities, noting that residents can easily transition to assisted living or memory care next door if their needs change, “a fabulous, easy way to take care of people as their lives evolve.”

Bobby Zeiller, Vice Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Silverstone Senior Living, reflected on the nearly decade-long journey to bring the project to life. Calling The Riviera a “passion project from the very beginning,” Zeiller credited the hundreds of contractors, designers, and team members who made the vision a reality.

He also pointed to the transformation of Potomac Yard, where innovation and history meet. With the Virginia Tech Institute for Advanced Computing campus just steps away and Old Town Alexandria nearby, Zeiller praised the City of Alexandria’s vision and partnership since early planning discussions began in 2017. “That is something you can’t create—and it’s not by accident,” he said.

In a personal moment, Zeiller acknowledged Alexandria City Councilman John Chapman and honored his late mother, a beloved resident of the neighboring community. “It’s truly gratifying to turn that service back around,” he said, underscoring the mission of caring for those who have long served others.

Executive Director Jamie Houston then welcomed guests and introduced the lifestyle vision behind The Riviera. Part of the Silverstone and Greystone portfolio, the community offers high-end independent living alongside access to a full continuum of care.

“Life at The Riviera is centered around engagement, wellness, and meaningful connections,” Houston said, as she highlighted amenities including chef-led dining, a rooftop terrace, wellness programs, a salon and spa, concierge services, and a vibrant calendar of social and cultural activities.

Among those bringing that experience to life is Simone Daniels, a newly hired mixologist at The Riviera. With a background in the hotel industry, Daniels is already adding a creative flair to the community’s social spaces.

“I just joined the team, so I’m very fresh,” Daniels said. “I’m excited to be here and be a part of the team and be able to express my creativity as far as drinks.”

Beyond the celebration, the event also underscored the broader network of professionals supporting seniors and their families during life transitions. Paula Beck, founder of Paula Beck Organizing, described her role in helping individuals downsize and move into communities like The Riviera.

“The most rewarding part is seeing the direct benefit,” Beck said. “People come to me overwhelmed, and I’m able to provide structure, empathy, and a process to make that transition much simpler.”

Safety and community well-being were also part of the conversation. Jody Maki, founder of Armored Village, an Alexandria-based company operating in 14 states, explained her organization’s mission to bridge the gap between institutions and public safety.

“We’re training staff to recognize potential signs of escalation and helping create safer environments,” Maki said. “Whether it’s a senior living community, hospital, or corporate setting, it’s all about making people feel secure during their time there.”

Following the remarks, attendees gathered for the ceremonial ribbon-cutting. With cameras poised, leaders and staff counted down together before officially cutting the ribbon to open the 129-unit residence.

Guests were then invited to tour the community, explore model apartments, and take in sweeping views from the rooftop terrace—experiencing firsthand the blend of luxury, care, and community that defines The Riviera Alexandria.

As the doors open, The Riviera stands as both a milestone for Potomac Yard and a reflection of Alexandria’s ongoing commitment to creating spaces where residents can continue to live vibrant, connected lives—and feel right at home.