Project Overview
We built a single-storey extension to a care home in Kent, increasing capacity and ensuring the new space fit with the existing building. The care home stayed open throughout, so from the start we focused on keeping things calm and safe for residents and staff.
The extension adds new ground-floor rooms and shared areas, improving how the home works for residents and staff.
The Brief
The client approached us with a clear set of objectives:
- Increase capacity without disrupting day-to-day care
- Keep all new accommodation fully accessible
- Match the existing building in appearance and materials
- Ensure full compliance with planning, Building Regulations, and care-sector standards
- Deliver the extension with minimal disruption to residents
Groundworks & Early Construction
We started with phased groundworks, like excavation and foundations, planned around the care home’s daily routines. We scheduled noisy work at appropriate times and maintained a clear separation between the home and the construction area.
All drainage, services, and foundation works were completed in line with local ground conditions and Building Control requirements.
Structure & Build Phase
We used traditional masonry to match the existing care home. We lined up roof lines, brickwork, windows, and details so the extension would feel like part of the original building.
Throughout the build, we worked closely with care home management to handle access, safety, and resident well-being. modern ground-floor accommodation
- Improved circulation and accessibility
- A bright, welcoming external appearance
- Landscaped external areas connecting old and new spaces
The finished extension fits in with the existing care home, both in its appearance and its operation.
Planning, Compliance & Safety
This Kent care home extension was delivered in full compliance with:
- Local authority planning conditions
- Building Regulations
- Fire safety and means of escape requirements
- Accessibility standards
- Care-sector layout and safety expectations
We handled everything from early planning to final handover, so the care home team could focus on residents instead of construction details.
The Outcome
The extension means the care home can take in more residents, improve how the building works day to day, and offer a better living environment, all without interrupting care.
Most importantly, residents experienced minimal disturbance throughout the works, something we treat as non-negotiable on live care projects.
Why This Matters
Care home extensions differ significantly from standard construction projects. They require:
- Experience working in live care environments
- Sensitivity to residents’ needs
- Strong planning and phasing
- Deep understanding of care-sector compliance
This project in Kent shows how careful planning and construction can help a care home grow without sacrificing quality or resident wellbeing.
