The Berkshire at Kensington in Waukesha, WI

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  • Interior

    A cozy indoor lounge area featuring a stone fireplace, surrounded by comfortable chairs and a small table.
  • Decor

    Cozy bedroom with a neatly made bed and soft lighting.
  • Living Room

    A cozy living room with a sofa, lamp, and coffee table near a window.
  • Seating Area

    A spacious lounge area featuring comfortable seating and tables.
  • Bookshelves

    A cozy library interior with wooden bookshelves filled with books and comfortable seating.
  • Wall Art

    Cozy living room with a sofa, table, and wall art.

The Berkshire at Kensington in Waukesha, WI

1800 Kensington Dr., Waukesha, WI 53188

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4 from 23 reviews
5 stars
14
4 stars
3
3 stars
0
2 stars
3
1 stars
3

Active Adult Communities (55+)

Overall Review of The Berkshire at Kensington

Pros

  • pro The community is nice and friendly, with neighbors who help one another.
  • pro The residents are cordial and seem to enjoy themselves, and the facility is well maintained and secure.
  • pro The residents are lovely.
  • pro The community offers affordable living for seniors.
  • pro The property is very well managed, and the residents are very friendly.
  • pro The maintenance crew is well appointed, and the property is kept to above-average standards.
  • pro The activities for residents are organized, and the staff show genuine care for their well-being.
  • pro The staff are wonderful and follow up with families on residents' needs.

Cons

  • pro They became embarrassed to have relatives or friends visit, calling the place a dump.
  • pro There were backed-up sinks, missing hallway ceiling tiles, and buckets hanging from pipes to catch leaks left for months.
  • pro Management was very slow to fix issues in residents' apartments.
  • pro Holes in hallways to access leaking pipes were left unfixed for months.
  • pro Common areas had dirty furniture and filthy, stained, nasty-looking carpeting.
  • pro There was an ongoing bedbug problem throughout the building.
  • pro They warned that living there would be worse than camping in a tent.
  • pro They urged others to stay far away from this community.

Review

The Berkshire at Kensington in Waukesha is best suited for active, independent seniors who want a budget-conscious, amenity-rich setting with strong social opportunities and convenient on-site services. This community tends to work well for residents who value a friendly, engaged peer group, clean common spaces, and an active calendar of social and recreational options. It suits those who can manage occasional maintenance quirks and who do not require ongoing assisted living care on a daily basis. For couples or individuals who want easy access to a bank, a store, a health center, and a sizable dining area alongside organized activities, Berkshire Kensington delivers a practical, self-contained lifestyle.

Those weighing alternatives should note who may want to look elsewhere. Individuals who need frequent hands-on care, memory support, or a higher level of medical oversight will likely outgrow the independent living framework here. Several long-tenured residents recount maintenance delays, leaks, and even persistent cleanliness concerns, with management changes cited as a factor in inconsistent operations. If pristine upkeep, predictable repairs, and steadily responsive management are non-negotiable, the Berkshire's variability may be a deal-breaker. In short, care needs beyond basic assistance are an important red flag to screen for before committing.

The community's strongest positives revolve around social potential and practical amenities. Residents frequently praise the welcoming atmosphere, the friendliness of neighbors, and the sense that staff are accessible and helpful. The property itself is described as well-kept in many accounts, and the on-site amenities - shopping-like convenience, a bank, a health center, and a large dining and activity area - create a compact, self-contained lifestyle that minimizes the need for constant errands off-site. When operations run smoothly, residents report meaningful programs and opportunities to socialize, entertain, and pursue interests without leaving the campus.

Yet those positives must be weighed against recurring concerns that appear in the longer-term experience. Several reviews recount serious maintenance issues - backed-up plumbing, unrepaired ceiling damage, and holes left in hallways - paired with reports of slow fixes and, in some cases, deteriorating cleanliness in common spaces. Bedbug problems and other housekeeping frustrations have also been cited, alongside memories of management that some feel has become less responsive with time. Taken together, these factors can erode the sense of safety, comfort, and pride in the space, particularly for residents who spend a lot of time in shared areas.

Prospective buyers should approach with a plan: tour at different times, and request concrete data on maintenance response times, recent repairs, and ongoing remediation efforts. Ask current residents about daily life, the quality and consistency of housekeeping, and how often activities are actually staffed and executed. Confirm how meals, if any, are arranged for independent residents and whether residents can customize their dining experiences. Above all, probe for what happens when needs escalate or when a care transition becomes likely; understanding the facility's capacity to partner with home health services or to coordinate transitions is essential for families planning ahead.

In the end, Berkshire Kensington offers a viable option for families prioritizing affordability, social vibrancy, and convenient on-site amenities, provided a realistic eye is kept on maintenance quality and management consistency. For those who demand rigorous upkeep, spotless conditions, and guaranteed proactive service, alternatives with stronger track records in housekeeping and rapid issue resolution may be wiser. The decision hinges on balance: a lively, self-contained independent living experience can be a strong match for many, but the potential for maintenance lapses and management variability makes thorough due diligence non-negotiable before committing long-term.

Features

Types of Care

  • Active Adult Communities (55+) Active Adult Communities (55+)Active Adult Communities provide seniors with opportunities for socialization, activities, and wellness programs tailored to their needs. These communities offer a sense of belonging and security while promoting an active and independent lifestyle for those aged 55 and older.

Pets

  • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
  • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

Amenities

  • Activities off-site Activities off-siteEngaging in off-site activities is crucial for seniors to maintain social connections, stay active, and stimulate their minds. It promotes overall well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Beautician on-site Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
  • Devotional services on-site Devotional services on-siteDevotional services on-site provide seniors with spiritual support and a sense of community, as well as an opportunity for reflection and guidance during their senior living experience. This can promote emotional well-being and connection to others, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in their later years.
  • Indoor common areas Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Outdoor common areas Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.

Transportation

  • General Mitchell International (19 miles away) General Mitchell International (19 miles away)

Activities

  • Activities off-site Activities off-siteEngaging in off-site activities is crucial for seniors to maintain social connections, stay active, and stimulate their minds. It promotes overall well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Devotional activities on-site Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.

Description

The Berkshire at Kensington in Waukesha, WI is a vibrant assisted living community offering a range of amenities and convenient access to various facilities in the surrounding area. With activities available on-site, residents can engage in social gatherings, exercise classes, and other recreational opportunities without leaving the community. Additionally, a beautician is available on-site to provide personal grooming services, ensuring residents always look and feel their best.

Devotional services are also offered on-site, providing spiritual support for those who desire it. Indoor common areas provide comfortable spaces for residents to relax or socialize with friends and neighbors. Outdoor common areas offer opportunities for fresh air and outdoor activities, such as gardening or enjoying leisurely walks in landscaped surroundings.

Residents at The Berkshire at Kensington benefit from its prime location near three cafes, perfect for grabbing a cup of coffee or enjoying meals outside of the community. Three nearby parks provide opportunities for nature walks, picnics, and spending time outdoors in peaceful settings.

Access to 10 pharmacies ensures that residents have easy access to their medications and pharmaceutical needs. Having four physicians nearby offers convenience when scheduling appointments or seeking medical assistance. Additionally, 21 restaurants nearby offer diverse dining options for residents who enjoy eating out or exploring new culinary experiences.

The presence of nearby places of worship caters to the spiritual needs of individuals who prefer attending religious services close to home. Lastly, having a hospital nearby provides peace of mind knowing that emergency medical care is conveniently available if ever needed.

Overall, The Berkshire at Kensington offers a comfortable and engaging assisted living community with ample amenities on-site while being located close to various establishments that cater to residents' diverse needs.

Nearby Places of Interest

This area of Waukesha, Wisconsin offers a variety of amenities suitable for senior living. With several restaurants, cafes, and pharmacies within close proximity, residents can easily access dining options and essential services. In case of medical emergencies or routine check-ups, there are hospitals and physicians' offices nearby. Additionally, the presence of parks allows for recreational activities and outdoor enjoyment. Places of worship provide spiritual nourishment and community connections. Theatres offer entertainment options for leisure time. Overall, this part of Waukesha provides a convenient and well-rounded environment for seniors looking to settle in a vibrant and welcoming neighborhood.

Restaurants

  • The Blue Ribbon Of Waukesha (0.8 miles)
  • Chili's Grill & Bar (0.9 miles)
  • Culver's (1 miles)
  • Tally's Tap & Eatery (1.2 miles)
  • Taco John's (1.2 miles)
  • People's Park (1.3 miles)
  • McDonald's (1.4 miles)

Cafes

  • Panera Bread (0.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.7 miles)
  • Mama D's Coffee (1.9 miles)
  • Black Canyon Coffee (6.1 miles)
  • Panera Bread (6.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (6.9 miles)

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (0.9 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.3 miles)
  • Walmart Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (2 miles)
  • Walgreens (2 miles)
  • Meijer Pharmacy (2.1 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.7 miles)

Hospitals

  • Waukesha Memorial Hospital (0.9 miles)
  • Ascension Wisconsin Hospital - Waukesha Campus (5.5 miles)
  • Waukesha Memorial Hospital (7.7 miles)

Parks

  • Glacier Cone Park (1.3 miles)
  • Waukesha Parks Rec & Forestry (2.1 miles)
  • Rivers Crossing Park (3.2 miles)
  • Wagner Park (5.7 miles)
  • Fox Brook Park (6.6 miles)
  • Lake Park Park (6.9 miles)
  • The Big Backyard (7.2 miles)

Places of Worship

  • First Congregational Church (1.6 miles)
  • Riverglen Christian Church (5.3 miles)

Physicians

  • Moreland Ear Nose & Throat (1.7 miles)
  • Prohealth Care Medical Associates (2.3 miles)
  • ProHealth Care Building (3.9 miles)
  • Orthopaedic Associates Wisconsin (4.5 miles)
  • West Suburban Center For Arthritis (5.1 miles)
  • Wheaton Franciscan Medical GRP (5.7 miles)
  • Aurora Wilkinson Medical Clinic (6.2 miles)

Theaters

  • Silverspot Cinema - The Corners of Brookfield (5.2 miles)
  • Hillside Cinema Delafield, Wi (6.6 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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