The project delivers a two-storey Care Home alongside an Amenity Building (River Lodge), both positioned at the heart of a newly established retirement village in Clevedon. The design carefully considers the needs of the village residents, prioritising comfort, care and security. The buildings have been designed with the historic rural character of Clevedon at the forefront. Drawing on the architectural language of traditional New Zealand homesteads and hotels, the material palette combines classic painted weatherboarding with timber and stone panels, reflecting the textures and tones of the surrounding natural environment.
The development targets a 6 Green Star rating from the New Zealand Green Building Council, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and high-performance design.
Care Home Design
The two-storey Care Home is designed to support dignity, universal accessibility, and a modern residential feel, enabling residents to transition seamlessly along the continuum of care.
The main entrance is accessed from the central boulevard, with a porte cochere providing a sheltered and welcoming arrival point for visitors. Visitor parking is located within easy walking distance and integrated into the landscaped setting.
The building is carefully planned so that all communal lounge, dining, and social areas are north-facing, maximising sunlight and connection to the outdoors. These spaces open directly to landscaped gardens and an internal courtyard, capturing both daytime and evening sun.
The care suites are designed to feel personal and independent, each featuring a kitchenette and private ensuite. Covered balconies extend each suite outdoors, offering residents private external space while adding modulation and residential scale to the building form.
Clinical and support spaces are discreetly integrated within the care wings, ensuring efficient operation without compromising the domestic character of the environment.
Amenity Building (River Lodge)
As the social hub of the village, the Amenity Building provides a range of communal spaces including lounges, elevated dining areas, bar, theatre, wellness suite, library, and activity rooms.
A large wrap-around verandah enhances indoor-outdoor living, maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
