40 | New facility provides comfort and dignity The development includes a purpose-built 17-bed dementia care facility completed in 2023, currently providing hospital-level care as the first stage of a multi-stage project. Ascot Park Village T T Russell Fredric REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Hawke’s Bay’s only family-owned boutique retirement village is entering an exciting new era as the long-planned expansion of Bryant House in Taradale nears completion. The development includes a purpose-built 17-bed dementia care facility completed in 2023, currently providing hospital-level care as the first stage of a multi-stage project. Stage 2, currently under construction, will replace the existing Bryant House care facility and include serviced apartments, shared community amenities and café, with full continuity of care for residents. Owned and operated by Greg and Susan Pritchard, Ascot Park Retirement Village has grown significantly since the couple purchased the original 33-bed Bryant House in 2007. Over the years, they have gradually acquired neighbouring properties, expanding from a modest 2500sqm site to a sprawling 10,800sqm village. “When we took over, many of the residents were independent and still had cars,” Greg says. “But over time, the acuity level of residents has decreased significantly, along with early-stage dementia becoming a more common reason for people entering care.” The shift in residents’ needs led to a key turning point, transitioning part of Bryant House into a dementia-specific facility, which allowed residents to remain in a familiar environment, easing the stress often caused by transferring to a different care home. “Our vision for this project actually began back in 2009,” says Greg. “We knew that to be viable long-term, we needed to expand, and that meant acquiring extra land.” Between 2009 and 2013, the Pritchards secured five adjoining properties, enabling their dream of building a boutique, full continuum of care retirement village to be realised. On completion, Ascot Park will offer 18 villas and 13 apartments for independent residents seeking low-maintenance living in a warm, connected community, with easy access to care when needed. “All but two of our villas are standalone – they’re not joined together, which makes us quite different.” The completed development will include 17 dementia care rooms, 31 “swing” care rooms adaptable between rest home and hospital-level care, and 13 one-bedroom serviced apartments. “Once the new wing opens, we’ll be transferring our existing residents from Bryant House directly into the new care facility and we expect it to be full from day one,” Greg says. A focus on luxury, comfort, and dignity has guided the design of the new wing. “The majority of our care rooms now come with king single beds, ensuites, built-in joinery, and all have a ceiling hoist making it easier for staff and residents alike. We’ve really invested in the quality of finishes and furnishings – we believe our residents should never have to compromise on comfort or environment.” This attention to detail is already having an impact. Staff have noted that family and friends are staying longer when visiting the new care wing – a clear sign the space feels more like home, Greg says. “We’re thrilled to be opening a facility where residents, families, and visitors can come together in a beautiful, welcoming environment.” The new care wing, apartment block and community centre is expected to be completed by the end of this year. Andrew provides comprehensive design services including everything from site feasibility and concept development to construction drawings, documentation, site observation, and project administration. Your Local Architectural Designer R E N O V A T I O N S N E W B U I L D S R E S I D E N T I A L C O M M E R C I A L I N D U S T R I A L H O S P I T A L I T Y E D U C A T I O N 027 279 6496 | arch@awdesign.co.nz Panton Consulting 103 Puketapu Road, Taradale, Napier New Zealand 4112 O ice 06 845 2406 Mobile 0274 740 696 Email admin@pantonconsulting.co.nz |
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