The Chocolate Quarter wins top architectural award
The Chocolate Quarter has won the award for Best Regeneration Project at the Pinders Healthcare Design Awards 2019.
The award was presented to representatives of the St Monica Trust, who redeveloped the former Cadbury’s factory in Keynsham into a luxury retirement village with 136 apartments and a 93-bed care home.
Community integration
Since it officially opened in April 2018, The Chocolate Quarter in Keynsham has gained national interest as it combines retirement living with a range of facilities which are open to the public, including B Block pizzeria, Somer Dining bistro, a health spa, hairdressers, nail bar and cinema.
Chief Executive of the St Monica Trust, David Williams, said: “This prestigious award is a welcome acknowledgement of the importance of listening to the people using our services and placing the concept of community integration at the heart of The Chocolate Quarter’s design.
“It’s also testament to the skill and dedication of KWL architects and the Andrew Wilson Partnership in incorporating this concept into the final design and build of the development, which is now home to more than 320 residents and staff.”
Recognising the very best developments
Celebrating their 20th anniversary, the Pinders Design Awards promote and recognise the very best developments in all types of care-related property.
The categories have been selected to recognise the achievements of the widest range of designers, developers and operators.
Whilst architectural standards and innovation are key factors, the awards also recognise the degree to which the project meets the needs and desires of the residents who live there.
First residents
The award was presented at a gala luncheon held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on 13 March, 2019. Special guests at the awards ceremony were Chocolate Quarter residents, Fred and Pat Hewitt.
Not only did the couple take part in the initial focus groups that influenced the design of The Chocolate Quarter, but they were also among the first residents to move in.
Fred Hewitt said: “For The Chocolate Quarter to win the Best Regeneration Project award is well-earned recognition of the excellent work of the St Monica Trust's staff, the architects, the builders and all others involved in the redevelopment.
“It confirms my belief that we live in an exceptional, vibrant and very special community.”
If you would like more information about The Chocolate Quarter call 0117 949 4004 or email info@thechocolatequarter.org.uk. You can also request information online at www.thechocolatequarter.org.uk.