- Construction has reached its completion for a new aged care facility in Perth's Claremont
- The facility is designed to harness the known benefits of intergenerational relationships
- The centre is now available for tours and enquiries
Construction of a new kind of seniors precinct has concluded in the western Perth suburb of Claremont.
The $100 million project has produced unique aged care, harnessing the benefits of intergenerational relationships.
One of the first of its kind in Australia, The Queenslea hosts an Early Learning Centre, allowing for easy access to daily intergenerational activities. These exercises benefit both elderly residents and children.
Various studies have found that seniors who interact with children – known as intergenerational volunteering – help keep older generations active exhibit better memory, fewer feelings of isolation and more stable health than their peers.
Oryx Managing Director, Toby Browne-Cooper said, “The way we view aged care in this country has changed: our residents will be able to enjoy a homely environment in an enriching and supportive community where couples can stay together and where families, friends and pets are welcome; with the delight of interaction with children available on a daily basis.”
“We are delighted with how our thoughtful design has come to life to enable Oryx to offer vitality to the young and old within the Claremont-on-the-Park precinct.”
Toby Browne-Cooper, Oryx Managing Director
The centre brings the future of aged care to the doorstep of Western Australians.
Appartments adopt a ‘small household’ architectural design model where a small number of larger bedrooms are centred around the heart of the home – the kitchen, dining and indoor and outdoor living areas.
The Queenselea is a six-storey development, offering around 100 beds for seniors. These are spread across 39 two-bed, two-bath serviced apartments as well as several one-bed apartments.
The facility will allow seniors to receive care in the comfort of their own home.
The apartments have been recognised for their beneficial design through a ‘Platinum Design Certification’ by Liveable Housing Australia.
The importance of well-being is emphasised in the wellness centre which provides residents with allied health, rejuvenation and re-enablement support.
Multiplex was the construction company leading the project on behalf of the aged care group – Oryx.
“We’ve been working closely with Oryx to deliver an enriching living environment for residents to create a real sense of community.
Chris Palandri, Multiplex Regional Managing Director
“The Queenslea features a terracotta façade and precast art panels with interiors that
promote homeliness and warmth by utilising natural timber,” said Chris Palandri.
“Whilst COVID-19 had an effect on material lead times, particularly terracotta from Germany and ceramics from Italy, we are pleased to be able to complete the build within the original construction program and had on average 221 workers at the peak of the build.”
DevelopmentWA Chief Executive Officer, Frank Marra said that DevelopmentWA was collaboratively involved in the design process.
“DevelopmentWA is investing in development solutions to maximise the use of our existing infrastructure, and Claremont on the Park has set the benchmark for higher density living in Perth.” Mr Marra said.
“Residents living at the Queenslea will be able to enjoy access to great health, education and recreation facilities along with shops, cafes and restaurants. The provision of varied housing options to meet our aged care needs is essential if we are to cater for our ageing population.”
Oryx already operates other aged car facilities at The Richardson in West Perth and has recently obtained approval for its boutique Melvista home in Nedlands.
The facility is now available for enquiries and tours.
