SHELTERED HOUSING

EXAMPLE PROJECT:

WESTLANDS, PEEL

Westlands was a 1970’s sheltered housing scheme with a mix of single storey dwellings and 2 storey deck access apartments. Since they were built the housing standards had improved significantly and the accommodation was, in effect, substandard for an independent living aged community - some units were also bedsits which were a completely unacceptable standard.

A scheme of replacement apartments and improved single storey units was progressed over a period of time starting with Phase A to allow for the decanting of the residents to allow the demolition of one of the two phases of the old homes. Phase A was carried out on a new site added to the scheme. Overall the combined scheme had a capital value of approximately $30M.

The locations were linked and the schemes included for Biomass heating energy on a small district heating scheme to all 3 phases. Each phase stood alone but was closely linked to enable the historic social and family networks to remain. Accommodation included both general common areas, warden assistance, kitchen and dining area and provision for external support services.

PHASE B

Phase C include a number of existing apartment that were converted from bedsits approximately 15 years ago. Whilst below the area set out in the current Housing Standards documents the client held the view that given the investment they would be retained and renovated with new kitchen/bathrooms and redecoration. Also the living spaces were given either access at ground floor to the communal garden or provided with a Juliette balcony. Added to the existing was a new block with apartments and internal communal areas including the main entrance. The landscaped areas provided a significant improvement to the outside living experience for the tenants.

PHASE C

A different palette of materials was used to give each phase to give each their own sense of identity and sense of place within the overall redevelopment scheme.