Former Care Facility Conversion to Specialised Supported Housing Facility

Lead Design Studios were appointed to reposition the former care facility into a viable, future-focused specialised supported housing scheme – unlocking the potential of an underutilised building while responding to increasing demand for high-quality specialist accommodation.

The project delivers a change of use from a Class C2 care facility to a Class C3b supported living scheme, creating five self-contained residential units supported by communal and staff facilities. This shift enables a more flexible and sustainable model of occupation, improving long-term usability while enhancing the overall value and performance of the asset.

A key driver of the scheme was the efficient reuse of the existing building. Through a carefully considered internal reconfiguration, the design maximises the potential of the current footprint, avoiding unnecessary expansion while delivering a fully compliant and high-performing layout. The result is a building that is both operationally efficient and adaptable to changing needs over time.

The design adopts a fabric-first approach, taking the building back to its structural core and rebuilding it to modern standards. Upgrades to the building envelope, acoustic performance, and fire compartmentation ensure compliance with current regulations while significantly improving durability, comfort, and long-term performance.

Internally, the scheme is defined by clear spatial planning and user-focused design. Each unit provides a complete, self-contained living environment with private kitchen, bathroom, and living space. Layouts are designed to accommodate a range of mobility requirements, with level access, generous circulation, and adaptable arrangements that support both independence and assisted living.

Shared spaces and on-site facilities are integrated to support day-to-day living, enabling a balance between privacy and support. This creates an environment that promotes independence while maintaining a safe and well-managed setting.

Externally, the approach is measured and contextual, retaining the established residential character of the building while introducing targeted enhancements. Improvements to access, parking, and circulation ensure full accessibility and compliance, while maintaining a strong relationship with the surrounding streetscape.

The scheme has secured full planning approval, demonstrating a clear alignment between design intent, policy requirements, and local need.

Our involvement extended across all RIBA stages, providing a clear and structured delivery strategy from concept through to planning. As reflected in client feedback:

“Matt and the team at Lead Design Studios are skilled professionals who provided sector specific pragmatic advice using their extensive experience. The practice provided a concise strategy with clear open communication lines throughout whilst incorporating the various RIBA stages with achievable milestones that could be shared with external stakeholders as needed to ensure successful project delivery.”