Signature at Wandsworth’s Design and Construction
With Anna Ramsden, Signature Head of Design
Having worked as an architect on the design team, Anna is now delighted to be working directly for Signature, monitoring the design progress, liaising with both the design team and the contractor on any design matters that may arise during the construction and fitting of the Wandsworth project.
Considering the location, the Wandsworth project offered a number of challenges that Anna feels were turned into positive developments. For example, the height of the building, featuring more floors than a typical care home, offered some lovely aesthetic opportunities;
“The building shape has also led to some unique bedroom designs, many offering great views. Residents will be able to pick rooms with views across Wandsworth Common, or north towards Fulham or at the upper levels, even towards the city and Canary Wharf on a clear day.”
Wandsworth being a more central location than other Signature homes also presented some logistical challenges that were overcome in elegant ways and have enhanced the design of the accommodation.
“Given the limited storage area during construction we have also looked at a number of ways elements of the design could be fabricated off site. This has given us an opportunity to check and monitor the quality of a number of the build elements even before they have arrived on site. Our bathrooms have been one of these items, travelling all the way from Italy as completed rooms or ‘pods’.”
Wandsworth’s location offers great benefits in terms of local facilities and travel options. The location has been fully incorporated into Signature’s design ideals so that residents and their families to enjoy these benefits while avoiding the potential issues of an urban location.
“The design includes many features to provide a good quality of air and ventilation, ensuring spaces are comfortable even during extreme weather conditions. Acoustic protection to the bedroom and common areas has also been key to limit any disturbance from traffic noise.”
Environmental considerations are also key to Signature’s design ideals and many cutting-edge technological innovations were included to make the building as environmentally sustainable as possible.
“Signature are always keen to ensure their buildings follow sustainable principles and are energy efficient. At Wandsworth we are aiming for an Excellent rating under the BREEAM sustainability assessment. This includes measures for responsible sourcing of materials, water preservation, reduced energy consumption and energy regeneration. As one example, we will have 100 solar panels installed on the flat roof for electricity generation.”
Signature has always been market-leading in the construction of its homes as well as the quality of care and lifestyle offered. Anna feels that Signature at Wandsworth is a perfect example of this.
“Building in the urban context of Wandsworth has led to a building design that no longer represents a typical view of ‘care’ from the outside and we hope that feel continues inside too. We want our residents to feel as if they have as much independence as possible but with the reassurance of the secured surroundings of a Signature building with Signature award winning care.”
You can find out more about Signature at Wandsworth, and even order a brochure here.
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