The award-winning architect, whose Managing Director is Lara Calder (pictured), were engaged by the NSW Government to provide guidelines for the SEPP (Housing) 2021 – Chapter 3, PART 5 – Seniors Housing.

The "Seniors Housing Design Guide" is intended to explain and clarify the intentions of the legislation in the SEPP.

"The Seniors Housing Design Guide (SHDG) November 2023 draws attention to the need for Seniors' housing and the specific differences these developments have from conventional residential developments." Lara told the SOURCE. 

"These types of projects include residential aged care as well as independent living communities, and the developments are often of a significant scale and have a big impact on the environment and locality. 

“The guide also covers different densities and urban typologies as well the need for meaningful landscape and outdoor spaces. It covers the needs of older people and the issues around ageing including dementia, but it is heavily focused on creating healthy and supportive communities."

Lara, whose company is the architect for projects including The Royce Penrith, Fresh Hope Care Green Hill, East Maitland, Opal HealthCare Toongabbie Terrace and HarbisonCare Burradoo, added there is also a focus on sustainable and responsible design, reducing the demand on energy and natural resources, but especially in making healthy indoor environments for older people who may not go outdoors so often. 

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