The Queenslea by Oryx Communities in Claremont reaches practical completion

WESTERN AUSTRALIA, AUSTRALIA: Multiplex has achieved practical completion of Oryx Communities’ multi-generational seniors’ precinct, The Queenslea in Claremont.

The $100M+ project is one of the first initiatives of its kind in Australia, making the future of aged care a reality now. The Queenslea by Oryx will harness the known benefits of intergenerational relationships in a vibrant, state-of-the-art precinct.

The Queenslea is a mixed used, six story development comprising a Residential Aged Care Home with approximately 100 beds, 39 two bed two bath Serviced Apartments for Seniors, in addition to a number of unique 1 bed apartments where seniors will be able to receive home care in the comfort of their own home.

A full service Wellness Centre will provide allied health, rejuvenation and re-enablement support to The Queenslea residents.

The Residential Care Home adopts the “Small Household” architectural design model where a small number of large bedroom suites are centred around a shared kitchen, dining and indoor and outdoor living areas.

The Queenslea also hosts an Early Learning Centre where daily intergenerational activities will be conducted between the elderly residents and children.

The generously sized  Serviced Apartments have been awarded Platinum Design Certification by Liveable Housing Australia (LHA) and are the first of their kind in Western Australia. The apartments have been constructed to ensure normality, dignity and quality of life are prioritised. Residents need never move again, even if their care needs change.

Located on a large land holding on the corner of Shenton and Graylands Roads, and within DevelopmentWA’s Claremont on the Park redevelopment, the precinct is close to the Claremont Quarter shopping centre, sporting facilities, Lake Claremont parkland, Claremont train station and the Claremont Aquatic Centre.

Oryx Managing Director, Toby Browne-Cooper said, “We are delighted with how our thoughtful design has come to life to enable Oryx to offer vitality to the young and old within the Claremont-on-the-Park precinct.

“The way we view aged care in this country has changed: our residents will be able to enjoy a homely environment in an enriching and supportive community where couples can stay together and where families, friends and pets are welcome; with the delight of interaction with children available on a daily basis.”

Multiplex Regional Managing Director, Chris Palandri, said it was very exciting to reach this milestone.

“We’ve been working closely with Oryx to deliver an enriching living environment for residents to create a real sense of community.

“The Queenslea features a terracotta façade and precast art panels with interiors that promote homeliness and warmth by utilising natural timber.

“Whilst COVID-19 had an effect on material lead times, particularly terracotta from Germany and ceramics from Italy, we are pleased to be able to complete the build within the original construction program and had on average 221 workers at the peak of the build”.

DevelopmentWA Chief Executive Officer, Frank Marra said that DevelopmentWA worked collaboratively through the design review process to achieve Oryx’s innovative vision to ensure a high-quality architectural outcome.

“DevelopmentWA is investing in development solutions to maximise the use of our existing infrastructure, and Claremont on the Park has set the benchmark for higher density living in Perth.” Mr Marra said.

“Residents living at the Queenslea will be able to enjoy access to great health, education and recreation facilities along with shops, cafes and restaurants.”

“The provision of varied housing options to meet our aged care needs is essential if we are to cater for our ageing population.”

Oryx also operates The Richardson aged care home in West Perth and has recently obtained approval for its boutique Melvista home in Nedlands.