Grove Lodge, Hazel Grove

Manor Architecture was tasked with designing a rear extension for Grove Lodge, a care home based in Hazel Grove, Stockport. The project aimed to create 11 new, high-quality care bedrooms to address the growing demand for senior living accommodation and assist the client to grow their income from the existing operation.

However, the design faced two key challenges. Firstly, Stockport MBC council's planning regulations mandated that the extension be subservient to the existing building which was a dormer bungalow for the main part of the home. This meant the design had to be visually sympathetic and avoid overwhelming the main structure. Secondly, the project aimed to utilise a previously unused area of land at the back of the care home. This presented an opportunity to maximise the facility's income generation potential while eliminating maintenance issues associated with neglected land.

To overcome the planning restrictions, Manor Architecture proposed a unique 1.5 storey extension. This design solution offered the necessary floor space for the additional bedrooms while maintaining a lower profile compared to a traditional two-storey extension. The lower portion of the extension seamlessly integrated with the existing building's height, ensuring a cohesive overall appearance.

The 11 new bedrooms significantly expanded Grove Lodge's capacity to accommodate more residents. This expansion not only translated to increased potential revenue for the care home but also provided the opportunity to cater to a wider range of resident needs and preferences. Additionally, the project potentially allowed for the inclusion of new amenities within the extension, further enhancing the overall living experience for residents.

The rear extension at Grove Lodge exemplifies a successful solution for expanding care home capacity while adhering to planning constraints and maximising land use. Manor Architecture's design not only increased the home's revenue potential but also provided the opportunity to create a more comfortable and enriching environment for residents.