While The Carnegie in Gaithersburg may have just opened their doors in August, the Art of Living Well program is already taking shape under the guidance of David Zoutendam and The Carnegie team.
While the community waits for its official Art of Living Well director to begin in January, Zoutendam, who has been with Kisco Senior Living for two years, is proudly guiding the charge. With a background in hospitality—ranging from hotels and private resorts to senior living—Zoutendam brings a fresh perspective to the community, one that combines resort-style luxury with meaningful, engaging programs for residents.
His approach to the Art of Living Well centers on providing a vibrant, active lifestyle for residents, and his vision for The Carnegie is clear: a community where every resident feels independent, youthful, and full of purpose.
Zoutendam envisions life at The Carnegie as like a five-star resort, where there is always something exciting happening. One of his many goals with the Art of Living Well program is to offer multiple events each hour, catering to a wide variety of interests and needs. Cultural celebrations play a key role in his vision, with a new country featured every month, allowing residents to immerse themselves in different cultures and traditions. Whether it’s a cooking demonstration, a music performance, or a history lesson, these events are designed to be both educational and enjoyable.

There’s a noticeable excitement about The Carnegie—not just because it’s new to the area, but because it offers something truly special and unique. Zoutendam’s goal is to promote independence while providing a vibrant, engaging lifestyle that stands out from other senior living communities. Whether residents are participating in cultural events, learning new skills, or leading activities themselves, they are sure to find a renewed sense of purpose and joy through the Art of Living Well.
As the team at The Carnegie eagerly awaits the arrival of the full-time Art of Living Well director, residents can rest assured that Zoutendam’s direction is setting the stage for an exceptional living experience. Because at The Carnegie, we believe that life isn’t just about living- it’s about living well.