Project Overview
This project comprised the design and construction of a 12-bedroom care home extension in Berkshire, adjacent to an operational facility. The goal was to increase capacity while preserving a calm, familiar environment and ensuring uninterrupted, safe care throughout construction.
From the outset, the client requested that the extension feel like a natural continuation of the existing home, not an “add-on.” This priority guided decisions regarding layout, materials, and site management.
The Brief
The care provider approached us with three clear priorities:
- Add 12 high-quality en-suite bedrooms to meet growing local demand
- Minimise disruption to residents, staff, and visitors
- Ensure full compliance with CQC standards, fire safety, and accessibility requirements
The extension needed to integrate seamlessly with the existing building, both visually and operationally.
Planning & Pre-Construction
We collaborated with the client and their team during early planning and technical stages, providing buildability reviews, phasing strategies, and coordinating access routes to separate residents from construction activity.
Given the live cIn a live care environment, early decisions on construction sequencing, hoarding, and safeguarding were essential. Temporary boundaries and clear circulation routes were established before work commenced. & Structure
The project began with groundworks and foundation construction, carefully phased to minimise noise and vibration. Once complete, we progressed to the main structural works, forming the new two-storey extension in traditional masonry to match the existing care home.
Scaffolding, deliveries, and plant movement were tightly controlled, with daily coordination between our site team and care home management.
Building the Extension
As the structure took shape, focus shifted to:
- Brickwork and roof construction to match existing finishes
- Window and door openings positioned to maximise natural light
- Internal layouts are designed for easy supervision and resident comfort
The extension was connected internally to the existing home, allowing for smooth staff movement and consistent care delivery once complete.
Interior Fit-Out
The 12 new bedrooms were finished to a high standard, each designed to feel homely, bright, and dignified rather than clinical.
Key features included:
- Generous bedroom layouts with space for personal furniture
- En-suite wet rooms with slip-resistant finishes
- Wide doorways and level thresholds for accessibility
- Calm colour palettes and durable, easy-to-maintain materials
Corridors and shared areas were designed with clear sightlines and a welcoming feel, supporting both residents and staff.
External Works & Landscaping
After the main build was completed, focus shifted to the external environment. New paths, landscaping, and seating areas were added to provide residents with safe, accessible outdoor space connected to the extension.
The completed extension blends with the original care home, maintaining consistent architectural style across the site.
The Result
The completed 12-bed care home extension in Berkshire has successfully increased capacity while preserving the character and day-to-day rhythm of the existing home.
The client now benefits from:
- Additional high-quality bedrooms are ready for immediate use
- Improved operational flow for staff
- A future-proofed building that meets modern care standards
Most importantly, residents experience the extension as part of their home rather than a disruption.
Our Role
As specialist care home builders, we managed the project from early planning through to handover, taking full responsibility for site safety, programme control, and quality in a live care environment.
