AGED CARE FITOUT
Summerset is New Zealand’s second largest retirement village developer and third largest operator. For over a decade SPACE were the principal architects and design consultants for Summerset Management Group, having the responsibility of all design aspects and consultants involved.
We have been involved in greenfield village developments in Napier, Hastings, Hamilton, Nelson, and Katikati as well as designing substantial additions to villages in Aotea, Manakau, Warkworth and Taupo, and many building alterations and refurbishments throughout the New Zealand wide Summerset property portfolio.
SPACE approached each new village as an individual project. Although there were many common requirements, it was important that each village was designed within its unique context. The objective for each project was to achieve the necessary accommodation, service and operational requirements whilst creating a generous, secure and enjoyable environment
in which to live and work.
As the designers of these large retirement developments SPACE had to consider significant issues particularly important to older people and the perceptual, functional and social changes associated with the ageing process.
The design solutions respond to these needs, enabling older people regardless of their limitations, to live as fulfilling and independent lives as possible.
As the lead design consultant SPACE were also responsible for the interior design and detailing, soft-fit selection, procurement and installation for several projects. Key design points when designing for aging people include; providing variety and choice, allowing personalisation and control over the environment, providing for adaptability of design, providing easy access to community services, facilities and information.
Public spaces should be balanced with intimate spaces to accommodate varying degrees of sensory deterioration
i.e. hearing and sight, spatial planning must also deal with loss of orientation, mobility and safety issues as well
as the operational needs of staff and the ability for
ease of servicing.
SPACE also considered the requirements of the retirement village operator in terms of economic sustainability from a servicing point of view, operational and staffing requirements, along with long term maintenance issues and fiscal objectives. This ensured a successful outcome for both village residents and village operators creating a community that is both functional and economically viable.