The existing site complex includes one large building, which had been added to and altered in several phases over the past 80 years.

The main House dates from the early 1900s, and is a large Victorian property, typical of the local Earlsdon vernacular style.

The historic extensions accommodate a bedroom wing (to the south of the main House), circa 1970, communal facilities to the south of the main House, circa 1980, and several smaller extensions to provide additional support facilities, circa 1990.

Whilst internally, the spaces were of a satisfactory standard, the Trustees felt that many of the spaces were at risk of falling short of the future required space and comfort standards.

Therefore, our Office were asked to offer a feasibility study, looking at the development opportunities for the site, not only to maximise the opportunity to extend and alter the current facilities, but also to explore the release of land for development for sale, and ultimately capital gain.

The final proposal therefore included a new 32bed extension wing, incorporating new support spaces, as well as connections to existing, and the development of a standalone set of residential apartments for the elderly.

The planned extension took advantage of the drop in level around the site, and accommodated a Lower Ground Floor level for support rooms and bedrooms. The remaining grounds have been re-landscaped to suit.

The development is being constructed on a phased basis due to the funding plan. Phase One has been completed, and included for the development of the overall shell, external works and the fit out of the Ground Floor level.

Phase Two is now under way, which includes for the installation of a new lift, and the fit out of the Lower Ground rooms.

The House has been an operational facility throughout the works, which has meant that all members of the design and construction team have had to work to maintain safe access, egress and logistical separation of the works throughout.

Vice Chair, Mr Amery of St Andrew's House says,

"This was a project that the Architects tackled with enthusiasm, particularly given the difficult site constraints.

The design specifications were well prepared, and the contract approach and tender constitution were well researched. The difficulties in programming, including deferred start dates, bad weather, unknown ground conditions, were all investigated thoroughly, and solved with due urgency.

We were always kept informed with regular site meetings, which typically involved all contractors and consultants. Throughout the works, the Architects were on the ball, helping find solutions which were well researched and founded."