Wolfeton Manor
The Wolfeton Manor Care Home extension, located in Dorchester, Dorset, represents a contemporary approach to designing for specialist residential care while respecting its historical and architectural context. The project, which includes 30 specialist residential rooms, staff quarters, and reconfigured internal layouts, integrates a contemporary three-story extension with the original Edwardian manor.
Project Director: Sean Daly
Project Leads: Adam Radwanski, Nicole Dobbie, Noah Harper
Planning Consultant: Planning Base
Highways: Bellamy Roberts
The proposed brick fin walls draw inspiration from the existing historical architecture, creating a visual continuity, while modern glazing and cantilevered balconies introduce a sense of openness and comfort.
The three-story extension is carefully proportioned to remain subordinate to the existing manor, maintaining a sense of hierarchy on the site. The user experience is at the heart of the design. Every resident’s room features large windows and access to a private balcony, offering natural light and outdoor amenity space. Thoughtfully designed circulation patterns and accessible layouts ensure a seamless and inclusive environment.
The project employed traditional masonry techniques for the brickwork, paired with modern construction methods to ensure precision in glazing and balcony installations. Virtual Reality (VR) technology was used during the design process, allowing stakeholders to visualise and refine the project in detail before construction commenced.
The extension is organised with clarity and efficiency, with bedrooms and staff quarters arranged to optimise privacy and access to natural light. Communal areas are positioned to foster social interaction, while circulation paths have been rationalised to streamline movement for staff and residents.
The Wolfeton Manor Care Home extension demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform and modernise existing care facilities without compromising historical integrity. By blending contemporary functionality with a sensitive response to context, the project elevates the quality of care and creates a dignified, welcoming environment for its residents.