Alexandra Place, Wokingham
Client: Catalyst Communities Housing Association
Role: Architecture, Project Management, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Town Planning
The interior design was a key factor in the success of this extra care housing development as it resulted in all of the sale units being sold ‘off-plan’ prior to completion of the construction. The interiors were designed to complement the contemporary style of the Architecture. The client group’s aspirations were to create a modern building which would be comfortable and practical yet uplifting and engaging for all its users.
The scheme offers comfortable, modern homes combined with all the amenities that discerning older people require, as well as on-site care for those that need it. The scheme provides 46 one bedroom apartments and 18 two bedroom apartments, along with community and recreational facilities including a café/restaurant with internet facilities, a shop, hairdresser, therapy suite, exercise suite, spa bathroom and guest accommodation.
The interiors had to meet the needs of today's older people and still be fit for purpose in twenty years time as each new generation is expecting higher levels of comfort, looking towards more modern, homely interiors. With this in mind, the concept presentation was aimed at a quality fit-out providing both a classic and timeless atmosphere.
In the ground floor Dementia area, great care has been made to ensure that the space is calming and homely with no dramatic surface changes, or any large scale patterns and overly bright colour schemes. Thought and consideration has gone into how the design effects lighting, fixtures and fittings and orientation within the Dementia area.
Overall, our approach to the interior design is about helping residents to optimise the use and aesthetics of any given space so residents, visitors and staff can take pride in their surroundings.
