Application submitted for a senior living development inspired by nature

In the picturesque semi-rural area of West Suffolk, plans for a new 64-bedroom care home have been submitted to Braintree District Council. The architectural firm, WGP Architects, has put forward this application, aiming to create a care home that promotes wellbeing for all residents.

The proposed care home, located on the outskirts of Haverhill, will be 'nestled' into a space surrounded by trees, offering a sense of connection with nature. Director of WGP Architects, Phil Waind, believes the design balances natural constraints and offers benefits to residents, visitors, and staff.

The care home will be constructed using layered timber cladding, a sustainable choice that aligns with WGP Architects' focus on usability, buildability, sustainability, and a connection with nature. Inside the care home, lounging chairs and activity spaces have been positioned at the out-ward facing corners of the building to assist orientation for people living with dementia.

To mitigate overheating risks, horizontal shading devices and a proposed green roof have been incorporated into the design. The extensive glazing, which has undergone solar radiation analysis, is another measure taken to prevent overheating.

The demolition of existing buildings on the site will make way for three linked accommodation blocks. A decision on the care home application is expected to be released in early autumn.

It's important to note that around 50% of emissions that come from buildings are created during construction and demolition. Waind states that WGP Architects are mindful of this, and their designs aim to minimise these emissions.

Meanwhile, in a separate project in a semi-forest area in West Suffolk, Feilden Fowles Architects are responsible for designing a sustainable nursing home. More details about this project will be revealed in due course.

Stay tuned for further updates on these exciting sustainable care home projects in West Suffolk.