Blog

Our client, the HSE, had an existing site with a Victorian four-bedroom house and wanted to create a larger independent living facility. To give a sense of continuity and belonging to the facility, the existing Victorian building was retained, as well as adding a single-story extension with eight bedrooms. The house therefore needed to be sensitively upgraded to comply fully with the requirements of the Health Information and Quality Authority standard (HIQA) regarding Residential Care. Our experience, both working with heritage projects and of project management, meant we were well placed to assist.

The bedrooms in the extension were designed around a courtyard garden so none look into each other. This also provides a sense individual space to each of the residents and further creates a sense of community. A butterfly roof was used to ensure all corridors had a natural light and airy feel.

To respect the integrity of the historic building, one of the jobs was to create a ramp for wheelchair access (the Victorian building had only step access on a slope).

Fire, ventilation, passive security and fire protection were all fitted to the existing heritage building achieving a modern standard as well as a bright, clean environment to live in.