ACA was commissioned to produce an interior design scheme for a new-build Extra Care development by Abbeyfield at Fern House, Bingley. Abbeyfield is a specialist provider of later-life accommodation and the site is located on the former Bingley Hospital site in West Yorkshire. The scheme comprises of 50 Extra Care flats, 30 Dementia rooms, day centre and all associated accommodation. The brief was to create a high-quality, homely environment wherein residents will enjoy and feel proud to invite the community into.
ACA used research-backed, interior design principles to produce an extra care development based around creating a familiar and homely environment. Themed floors were inspired by the local context of the area. Recognisable images of the local area aid with way-finding and orientation around the building. Moreover, the materials are carefully selected to have homely and welcoming characteristics. Materials with sound-absorbing properties are used to promote a therapeutic environment.
In addition, using a collaborative design process, ACA worked with a local artist to produce a bespoke installation in the ‘Copper Kettle’ Café. The tactile piece of 3D artwork made up of reclaimed and vintage copper kettles aids residents, some of whom suffer from Dementia or similar conditions, in understanding their environment. The installation has an association with the local context and evokes a sense of identity with the local area.
ACA had the honour to be part of the project at Fern House, recognised for two awards of the Grand Final Winners in Regional Yorkshire and Humber namely;
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyor (RICS 2018) for Best Residential Scheme.
Local Authority Building Control (LABC 2018) for Best Social and Affordable Housing Development.
