A new multi-purpose space will be built at ACH Group’s West Park residential care home at Goolwa as part of an upgrade of the site.
Work on the $500,000 project is set to commence in July and will include the construction of the standalone activity room with kitchenette, toilet and covered alfresco area.
West Park Manager Lynn Coleshill says the space will be a welcome addition at West Park, where residents enjoy a balance of private and communal living.
“This will be a place where people can maintain and improve their health and wellbeing, as well as provide opportunities for social connection through a range of activities including our art classes, Sunday café and birthday celebrations,” she says. “It will be a warm and inviting place to bring the West Park community together.”
Leading South Australian architect Walter Brooke, whose portfolio includes the Adelaide Oval redevelopment, Australian Federal Police headquarters, and ACH Group’s ViTA facility, was engaged to design the contemporary, multipurpose space.
Ms Coleshill says the upgrades are in line with ACH Group’s Healthy Ageing approach which aims to make it as easy as possible for residents to remain physically, mentally and socially active.
“We want to ensure that our residential care offerings continue to offer innovative models of care and the best in modern facilities to support people to live well as they age,” Ms Coleshill says.
The project will be carefully staged to minimise disruption to residents, staff and volunteers during the construction phase, expected to occur between July and October.
Anthony Balsamo, Director from Walter Brooke Architects, describes the design vision for the upgrade as having a strong focus on improving the health and wellbeing of all residents. “The new facility will be purpose built for residents and include protected and shady outdoor spaces, fresh contemporary finishes, and all within a flexible multipurpose space that seeks to encourage an active lifestyle,” says Mr Balsamo.
Schiavello Construction (SA) will undertake the building works which is expected to have a direct local community benefit; both through the construction phase and ongoing. As well as being leaders in construction in the health and aged care sector, Schiavello Construction (SA) was recently appointed to deliver the upgrade to Goolwa High School.
A not-for-profit organisation established since 1952, ACH Group operates eight fully accredited residential care homes across Adelaide and the Fleurieu each with their own signature features and strong links with the community.
Established in 1989, with 10 new rooms added in 2001, West Park is a lively and bustling home, comprising a range of self-contained cottages and private single room residential care units.