Innovative three-storey extra care building

Procured through the Scape Framework for Leeds City Council and Wates Construction, the project is part of a wider residential masterplan. The building contains 48 one-bed and 12 two-bed accessible apartments. Designed to HAPPI principles and dementia design guidance, the open-plan environment supports residents with physical frailty and cognitive, visual, and hearing impairments.

The lively heart is the multi-use entrance activity hub, where communal facilities also serve the local community. A vertical circulation core keeps resident areas secure whilst allowing public access to a landscaped roof terrace. Homely living accommodation is arranged in three wings. To avoid institutional corridors, circulation is a ‘street’ with ad-hoc seating, reading nooks, garden access, and navigable floor finishes, lighting, and signage. Recessed balconies provide private space and accentuate depth and shadow across the façade. North-facing balconies could become energy-efficient conservatories.