The first stage of a multi-stage project is nearing completion at The Bayview Retirement Village in Tauranga.
Formerly known as Melrose Retirement Village, The Bayview Retirement Village’s new care facility is the first stage of a project that aims to transform the village into a modern complex catering to more than 300 residents.The two storey care facility will cater to around 81 people and has been designed by Peddlethorp.
Peddlethorp director Terrence Barnes says the practice, which won the project in a competition, has aimed to create a facility that allows in lots of natural light and views – particularly important to ensure a warm living environment for residents.
The design had to take into account a number of existing buildings on the site as well as a redesign of the entranceway to allow for better flow and direction finding around the site. Further stages of the project will see four apartment blocks holding 209 apartments and seven villas constructed.
Terrence says the design philosophy has been to design a central main building with common areas such as a wellness centre, pool, spa, library, gymnasium and main reception, as the palm of a ‘hand’ with the four apartment buildings radiating off this like fingers.
As the 15 acres site has various contoured level changes Terrence says that the new design is intended to make it easier for the residents to get around the park like grounds. This has been addressed by ensuring movement between buildings is on relatively level ground with covered walkways providing shelter.
“The building footprint is designed so that we could retain existing outdoor spaces and create new well landscaped areas so that residents can enjoy going for walks.
He says the building wings that include the independent living units have a change in direction or ‘joint’ which gives interest to the shape and soften straight lines, creating a more homely and personal atmosphere.
The joints also allow extra light into the space and this is where the stairs and lifts are located to transport residents to different levels.
He says a great deal of thought was put into ensuring the design fitted in with the surrounding residential neighbourhood and the building footprint has been set out for solar orientation and maximise views that are enjoyed from the site.
Another important consideration was for the interior environment and how that should reflect how today’s older person likes to live.
“Times have changed and people are ageing later and are more active as they get older. They want to be involved in more activities and socialise more. That’s why the central communal area is so important.”
The Bayview Retirement Village employs activities staff who provide a varied programme for residents. The communal area includes a large lounge and meeting areas, kitchen facilities, and dining spaces.
Terrence says the whole project has been designed by Peddlethorp with quality of living in mind. “This is always at the forefront of our planning and design.”
The Bayview Retirement Village is operated by Oceania Healthcare, one of New Zealand’s largest owners and operators of retirement villages.
Oceania Healthcare operates in over 40 locations, including 25 villages and offers around 3,000 care rooms (over 200 of which are care suites) and around 1,000 independent living villas and apartments.
The company directly employs over 3,000 staff and is a winner of the NZ Aged Care Association’s Supreme Award for Overall Excellence in Care for three years in a row.
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