estia mt barker 

mount barker, australia

The design concept aims to complement the surrounding residential precinct with a low-scale, articulated building that respects the heritage character of the Mount Barker setting. A significant existing tree is retained at the front of the building, creating a welcoming and memorable entry experience.

The brief calls for 118 residential aged care bedrooms, including an 18-bed Memory Support Unit (MSU) for residents experiencing early-stage dementia. The MSU is designed in line with mental health and dementia-specific design principles, featuring secure outdoor spaces, multiple walking loops, and continuous supervision to support resident safety, comfort, and wellbeing.

An innovative ‘spine’ concept forms the organisational core of the building, providing an oversized central corridor that enhances wayfinding, improves staff efficiency across accommodation pods, and brings abundant natural light and landscape connection into the heart of the facility.

Allied health services, administration, kitchen facilities, and back-of-house operations are located at the ground-floor entry for easy access and to better support the needs of the wider region.