At LifeCare Residences, we pride ourselves on creating the optimum living space for discerning residents in their retirement. By introducing design aspects, akin to a five-star hotel, coupled with a warm and homely atmosphere, we have set the benchmark in pioneering the finest retirement living.

This article explores the design aspects of our London-based community – Battersea Place – the first luxury retirement community in the Capital. Continue reading to learn how we used innovative design to challenge perceptions of the traditional retirement community, creating the perfect environment to spend your retirement years.

Battersea, in London, is famous for its red brick Victorian Houses and mansion flats. At Battersea Place, we wanted to create a development that was sympathetic to the surrounding properties. We used brickwork as part of the exterior design to compliment the neighbouring residences located on Albert Bridge Road (opposite Battersea Park).

Around the perimeter of the development, careful planting maintains a sense of privacy from the bustling world outside. At the centre is an outdoor courtyard which provides a central focal point. Together, with garden landscaping, this creates a quiet sanctuary to relax and enjoy a cup of tea or an alfresco lunch with friends.

Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the outside in, affording breath-taking views of the tranquil parkland opposite or dynamic city views to the west. The entire building has been designed to make the most of its proximity to Battersea Park and the beautiful courtyard at the centre of the complex.

Around the building, and within each apartment, considered design ensures easy and safe accessibility. The majority of thresholds are level, leading onto balconies and other outdoor areas. Automatic opening devices have been used where appropriate. The widths of the showers and heights of the WCs were also designed to suit residents with different mobility needs.

A boutique nursing floor is incorporated within the development, giving residents access to care services should they ever require this. This addition empowers residents and their families with peace of mind that award-winning care can be provided should the situation demand it. Couples are also able to stay in close proximity when one of them is in need of extra support, creating emotional reassurance, as well as practical convenience at what can be a stressful time.

At Battersea Place, our apartments incorporate bespoke design features to make you feel at home. The apartments are both stylish and practical with attractive reception rooms for relaxing or to entertain guests. In the bedrooms, roomy fitted wardrobes provide a seamless finish and a hotel feel. Cooking at home is always a pleasure with the fully integrated and intelligently designed kitchens. Luxury bathrooms can also be adapted to suit your needs and ease of use.

Many apartments benefit from a patio or a balcony enabling enjoyment of outdoor space from the comfort of your home. All the duplex penthouses have their own private lift.

The natural beauty of Battersea Park is echoed in the interior design of the communal areas at Battersea Place. Natural motifs and materials were used in the décor, bringing the outdoors in.

The communal lounge is decorated in a green pallet, reflecting the colours of the park. In contrast, the lower levels of the restaurant are decorated in a mixture of greys, emulating the style of a Michelin-star restaurant. The floors are finished with natural tones and wooden panels and birch twigs have been used in keeping with the nature theme. In the hallways, black edging and skirting boards and stark carpets of the best quality, have been used in the design.

At all times during the design process, safety and comfort of the residents were paramount. For example, the heights of the chair seats are all equal, and the sofas and armchairs are slightly higher than usual for ease of use. They are both comfortable to sit in and easy to rise from. In the restaurant, the dining chairs have curved arms so they can be easily used by residents with mobility issues. Everything has been carefully thought out and executed in the best possible taste.

The greatest care was taken to ensure that there is enough room for residents to move around. This is especially true where there is communal seating with communal areas designed to serve a variety of day-to-day purposes. Residents can watch television, use computers and read in the spaces available. Furnishings were selected both for their practical and elegant properties, with suppliers sourced to deliver the best results.

To make the reception area both practical and luxurious, a stain resistant, ivory carpet was used. Silk wallpaper with embroidery lines the walls. A bespoke lighting installation adds a touch of luxury and style to the area.

Art at Battersea Place was commissioned through the Trowbridge Gallery. In the communal spaces, abstract pieces have been selected (beneficial for any residents suffering from macular degeneration). A variety of photographs of iconic London scenes are also displayed. Opposite the lift, on each floor, is a different work of art – conveniently situated to help in identifying you are on the desired floor.

A wealth of hotel-inspired facilities and daily activities, created by a dedicated Lifestyle Manager, enables opportunities for residents to enjoy a mix of mental stimulation and physical activities. There is a social lounge and cinema to enjoy cultural pursuits including films and lectures. For exercising, there is a gym / pool and billiards room to enjoy. Should you desire pampering, there is also a hair salon and beauty treatment room available. Many residents spend time in the courtyard garden in the summer. It’s a beautiful place to relax and get some fresh air.

In the onsite restaurant, overseen by an executive chef, high-class dining is delivered each day. Throughout the year, we host food and wine tastings. There is a private dining room available to book for bespoke events or family dinners. Room service is also available directly to your apartment. Breakfast is served in our onsite cafe, and fresh barista coffee is on offer all day long.

At LifeCare Residences we pride ourselves on standing apart from other developers and were involved with the design process from start to finish. Described as one of the top Retirement Communities in the world, the level of detail in the design at Battersea Place is astonishing for a residential setting.

To experience Battersea Place for yourself, please call Joanna on T. 020 7924 8641 or E. [email protected] or visit
www.batterseaplace.co.uk.