LVO Architecture

Noosacare Carramar:

Retirement Village Extension and Dementia Unit
The recently opened Noosacare Carramar extension in Tewantin, Queensland, embodies the ongoing shift in design and operation of aged care facilities in Australia.


Significant extensions to the existing facility were undertaken, including a new administration building, 32-bed specialist dementia unit and new vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems.

Working in a design and construct arrangement with highly respected project managers Paynter Dixon, LVO’s architectural team approached the project with the resident and health care professional as their focus. The team was careful to balance the desired welcoming and familiar sense of home with the specific requirements of a specialist aged care facility.

Important to the design of the dementia unit was a simple, clearly defined and open plan layout that reduces patient confusion and disorientation. Tapered corridors encourage pedestrian flow to common areas and aid in reducing an institutional atmosphere.

A connection with the outdoors prevails throughout the facility with significant use of glazing in communal areas including clerestory windows to the corridors, while each residential suite overlooks the beautifully landscaped gardens.

The new administration building performs as a defining entry statement to the precinct and sets the tone for the innovative facility. It houses a new reception, offices, meeting rooms and drop off point and connects to the existing activity centre, providing pedestrian access and visual enhancement that remains aesthetically sympathetic to the original architecture.

Thoughtful interpretation of scale, form, use of finishes and an abundance of natural light creates a domestic atmosphere in a clinical environment, contributes to the centres philosophy of living rather than caring and fulfils the brief of a coastal feel, reflective of the local Noosa area.

 

For more information on this article, please contact Wayne Lafferty at wayne.lafferty@lvo.com.au