LODGE
ROAD

The client, Central and Cecil, is a charitable provider of accommodation and care for the elderly which owned and operated a 1950s block containing 250 small bedsits. The accommodation was inflexible, the units too small and no longer regarded as fit for purpose.

LOCATION

Westminster, UK

VALUE

£60m

CLIENT

Central and Cecil

SECTOR

build-to-rent

STATUS

Planning Approved

The design challenge was to create a similar number of larger apartments with significantly enhanced support and social provision, together with the addition of private accommodation for sale to substantially fund the development

Central and Cecil have historically provided a single model of care across their portfolio. This project pilots a flexible, menu based approach. Some residents are completely independent, others benefit from a light touch support, while others require substantial care services.

A significant area of development is to mitigate the symptoms of dementia. In our ageing society dementia has emerged as a key issue. Medical practices are enabling us to live longer but we are unable to counter the loss of brain function.

A key priority is the overriding importance of creating a real sense of belonging – of home, and of a spirit of community. This is achieved through the avoidance of large institutional lounges in favour of smaller more intimate spaces. Exploring real and meaningful activity with opportunities to make and do is part of the research programme. Car repair, cooking, gardening all form part of day to day activities.