01/10/2009
EXTRA CARE FOR RYEDALE!

Deansfield Court, the Extra Care housing scheme in Ryedale designed by Bowman Riley Architects and built by Termrim Construction is opening its doors to new residents this month. The £6m scheme for Yorkshire Housing provides 50 one and two bedroom apartments designed to offer people over 55 years of age independent housing with access to care and support, tailored to meet the needs of each individual.

Bowman Riley Architects have worked closely with the team at Yorkshire Housing over a four year period as the brief was refined and the vision of an Extra Care Housing scheme evolved.

The result is a variety of flat types which take advantage of the outstanding views and provide residents with individually controlled central heating, full wheelchair accessibility, internal parking spaces for mobility scooters, fitted kitchens and links to an intercom alarm providing 24-hour assistance.

The range of communal facilities available include an on-site shop for essentials, a hairdressing salon, a communal lounge and library, restaurant and therapy rooms, guest rooms for family visitors and short breaks, communal gardens, and an internet suite. "These all make for a welcoming environment for residents and a contribution to the surrounding community" says project Architect Garfield Jones.

Difficult ground conditions on site led to innovative foundation design and the three storey timber frame construction ensured rapid progress once the building was out of the ground. Deansfield Court achieved an EcoHomes 'Very Good' rating and incorporates specific elements to reduce the environmental impact of the development. These include a solar water heating system, responsibly sourced material, dedicated low energy internal and external lighting, accessibility to local amenities, internal and external recycling facilities, and water butts for external water usage.