Gorton Mill, Manchester

Colour schemes are key at Gorton House

Gorton Mill Sheltered housing

Gorton Mill House in Manchester consists of 106 self-contained apartments for social rent for people aged 55 and over. Gorton Mill takes its name from the site's earlier use as an industrial mill. Residents enjoy landscaped gardens, a communal lounge and events room, laundry and access to a flexible range of 24-hour on-site care and support depending on need. Dressing Rooms of Cheshire was tasked with comprehensively designing and installing all 15 communal areas in the housing complex.

Commercial design for sheltered housing

These communal spaces were meticulously crafted with the residents' well-being in mind. The thoughtful interior design process involved creating room layouts to cater to the residents' unique requirements, taking into account considerations for dementia care. Our expertise in early-onset dementia needs was seamlessly integrated with visual aesthetics.
British Standards requirements and incorporated guidelines for dementia care call for a harmonious and supportive environment for residents. In the design phase, each floor is assigned a carefully chosen key colour that influences interior design choices on flooring, artwork, and furniture. This strategic use of colour serves as a visual cue for residents' orientation within the living space.
Factors such as fabric selection, flooring contrast with a good light reflectance value, durability and ease of maintenance were integral to interior design considerations. Design also drew inspiration from the area's history, specifically its origins as a botanical garden. This thematic influence added an extra layer of meaning to the interior design, creating a space that is not only functional but also resonates with the locale's unique character. Dressing Rooms produced or sourced all soft furnishings and furniture, followed by installation, fitting, and dressing of the entire scheme.

Client: Southway Housing Trust