Hooper St
2016
PROJECT NAME
Hooper Street Project
TYPE PROJECT
Accommodation
Independent Living Homes
SECTOR
Accommodation
Accessible Housing
CLIENT
Cootharinga North Queensland
This project, once again created through our strong relationship with Cootharinga and Martin Locke Homes has been truly life-changing.
For those who now make it their home, it means comfort, it means a safe environment and it means an independence they would otherwise not have had the chance to experience.
With premium accessible features, state-of-the-art design, a façade that fits perfectly within its suburb and modern, stylish interior design – this project is a stand-out in any category of housing.
It meets the most stringent accessibility requirements, yet looks and feels like a regular, yet stunning, new home.
The design, by architect Ken Tippet, includes two two-bedroom pods including private ensuites and patios, plus shared entertainment areas, kitchens and laundries as well as a carer’s pod located strategically in between.
The in-built hoist system is believed to be the first of its kind in Townsville and enables safe and easy transitions from the living space through to the bedroom and ensuites for those with high physical support needs.
“With millimetre precision required, our entire team of trade professionals and partners worked very hard on this project, and I’m sure it was as rewarding for them as it was for me,” Martin said.
“To know that the home we have constructed, and the effort we went to making it functional is making a difference to people’s lives is truly humbling.
“It’s something we are so proud to be a part of and we hope to continue our strong partnership with Cootharinga North Queensland who is committed to helping people live the life they want, no matter what their ability.”
Built to meet Australia’s Disability Code and to the Platinum Level of the Livable Housing Australia Guidelines the home is as functional as it is beautiful.
The kitchen is specifically designed to enable wheelchair access with low-set, side-access oven and microwave, benches brought down to the optimum level with cavities included below to allow comfortable use while in a wheelchair. Plus the remote-controlled, fully adjustable stone bench to accommodate different people’s needs and abilities.
The ensuites are again stylish yet accessible, with access via the ceiling hoist system, through wider doors, with space to safely transition from wheelchair or sling to shower and toilet.
Covered pathways with automated sensor lighting enable safe and seamless access between pods for tenants and carers, while the remote controlled front doors allow easy access and automatic locking – removing that initial hurdle to the home which can be such an obstacle for those living with disabilities.
A self-contained carer’s quarters including kitchen, lounge area and bathroom is located strategically between pods to ensure optimum access to both.
This home is one the Martin Locke Homes team is particularly proud of.
