Whiteley Village Care Centre, located in Walton on Thames, Surrey, is a purpose-built facility that provides specialist social housing for older adults. Recognizing the importance of combating loneliness among its residents, Whiteley Village sought to expand its facilities with a new nursing care centre that would blend clinical support with enhanced social interaction.
After consulting with residents and exploring several options, Whiteley Village selected Innova as the sole supplier for their new project. Innova had previously demonstrated their capability by successfully outfitting Woking and Sam Beare Hospice. For this project, Innova was responsible for supplying and installing a range of loose and fitted furnishings across the facility.
The challenge was to create an environment that not only catered to the clinical needs of the residents but also fostered a sense of community and connection. The new two-story nursing care centre features a central, open-plan kitchen and living area on each floor, designed to be a focal point for social interaction. Additional facilities, including a stylish Lantern Café and a hair salon, were also incorporated to encourage communal activities. For residents requiring higher levels of care, therapy and consulting rooms, as well as 30 studios, were provided.
Innova’s solution involved a comprehensive approach to interior design, led by Sales Director Joe Hulbert, who worked closely with the interior design team to create unique mood boards for each area of the new care home. Innova supplied all the furniture, including outdoor furniture and plants, which were used to soften common areas and enhance the overall environment. Special attention was given to ensuring the furniture catered to residents’ needs without appearing clinical. This included sourcing dining chairs with in-built wheels to improve accessibility and providing bespoke riser recliner chairs for communal areas.
By providing tailored furnishings and expert design advice, Innova helped Whiteley Village create a warm, welcoming environment that encourages greater interaction between residents, whether they live independently or require more intensive care. The end result is a care facility that not only meets the physical needs of its residents but also enriches their social lives, making it a model for modern nursing care.
“The Eliza Palmer Hub replaced a century-old nursing home that was increasingly unfit for purpose. With Innova’s creative expertise and professional advice we have been able to combine functionality, comfort and beauty in a way which ensures it is a place that, most importantly, all our residents can call home. The lovely social spaces it offers both inside and out ensure it is much more than a care home – as it name suggests it is a hub for all those living in our community at Whiteley Village.”
Rachel Hill, Chief Executive of the Whiteley Homes Trust