Sandy Road is a development for 63 apartments to provide an independent living community for residents aged over-55 in Seaforth. Working with leading registered provider Housing 21 and funded by Homes England, our innovative vision is to provide residents with genuine independence, whilst fostering an inclusive community spirit. Planning has been approved with work due to start on site in Spring and the first residents are expected to move into their new homes in 2028.
Often housing for older people has a functional and institutional feel that doesn’t recognise or balance people’s twin need for privacy and belonging. Instead, our pioneering approach to older people’s housing aims to provide residents in Seaforth with genuine independence whilst fostering a strong and inclusive community spirit – with an emphasis on openness and connectivity. We wanted the development to be open to its location at the heart of a vibrant community, giving residents a tangible sense of connection and belonging.
From the outset we set out with a determination to create a community, and a sense of place that gives residents their own personal space, but also attractive spaces for socialising, relaxation and recreation. Our approach has been to focus on efficient layouts, maximising space and functionality providing all the necessary amenities for over-55s living. We believe it’s really important that design fosters a sense of connection to the local neighbourhood, as well as to the natural world. The south-facing communal garden provides space for relaxation, healthy exercise and social engagement, as well as a connection to place and nature.
The scheme includes an improved public footway and cycleway to help integrate the development into its local setting, while design details, including personal front doors, first floor overhangs and Juliet balconies for first floor apartments, were all integral to the subtle balancing of independence and community.
There is a strong synergy between ourselves and Group/d in our approach to place making and home making. We are delighted to be moving forward with them on this project and excited by the potential of our future collaboration
James Lawton, Housing21
