DMW have secured planning for an extension of Wolfeton Manor Care Home in Dorchester, to provide 30 specialist residential rooms and staff quarters organised around a large three storey extension. The project will also reconfigure much of the existing property to create a greatly enhanced user experience, whilst circulation pattens have been rationalised to improve the operational efficiency of the complex.

The extension has a very rational layout, with the use of buff Brick Fin walls, referencing the original Edwardian Manor House. Glazing has been introduced to provide natural light into each room, with balconies providing a covered external amenity for each occupant. 

The orientation of the extension was carefully planned on the north / south axis, so the landscaping enjoys maximum sunlight and reduced time in shadow. 

Working in close collaboration with Dorset Council’s Conservation Officer throughout the design, as part of the process we used our Virtual Reality capabilities to present the scheme to officers, the client and team members. The software allowed the user to view every aspect of the scheme, allowing them to 'walk' the building and grounds, gaining an in-depth understanding of the full proposal.