ISG Jackson takes second Quantum Care scheme

The £1.7 million scheme to extend residential facilities at the Willow Court Care Home in Harpenden, Hertfordshire closely follows an earlier £2 million project at Belmont View Care Home in Hoddesdon.

At Willow Court, ISG Jackson will build 20 additional residential rooms set across two, two-storey timber frame extensions to the existing care home. The en-suite rooms are purpose-built for residents with dementia and all have access to communal dining and lounge facilities. The extensions will blend seamlessly with the existing care home structure and have in fact been designed by the same architectural practice responsible for the original building.

As part of the contractor’s active engagement with Quantum Care, the delivery team attended a special dementia awareness training course run by the organisation. The outcome of this knowledge sharing forum has led to a number of immediate on-site initiatives to minimise the impact of the construction work on current residents. The most notable of these measures is the adaption of the traditional site hoarding, which is now painted and features a rolling countryside scene.

Understanding the specific requirements of residents has a major impact on room layouts and design details. ISG Jackson is working closely with Quantum Care and the design team to develop a palette of soft, moderate colours to decorate the new facilities. No detail is too small to overlook and this extends to the specific placement of mirrors in rooms and the ability to incorporate a picture onto the entrance door to each room to aid familiarity.

Stuart Talbot, building divisional director at ISG Jackson, commented: "Our experience with Quantum Care really demonstrates the effectiveness and importance of a close working relationship between client and contractor. Despite our wealth of experience delivering award winning extra care facilities, we are constantly learning and refining our offering to ensure clients benefit from the very best solutions that help to transform lives.”

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