Woonona Aged Care Village

Illawarra Retirement Trust (IRT)

Concept render of the residential villages at IRT Woonona Aged Care Village from the street front
Client
Illawarra Retirement Trust (IRT)
Sector
Community
Date
In Progress

Project Overview

Set in a coastal hinterland at the foot of the escarpment, the IRT Woonona proposal reimagines the site as a contemporary senior living environment. New independent living residences, a social and wellbeing centre, clubhouse, and café are introduced to foster connection, community, and belonging, whilst the existing Flametree RACF, Camelia Lodge, and the heritage-listed Bluegum Sanctuary are retained within a renewed landscape precinct.

Working together with Team2 Architects, the design adopts a humanist approach to the architecture, with environmental initiatives developed in collaboration with Indigenous consultancy. Gentle curves, tactile materials, and a warm coastal palette define the built form. Considered layers of linear brickwork, sandstone plinths, and timber textures shape the rhythm and modelling of the façades. The architecture is embedded within the landscape, creating a place of familiarity, comfort, and longevity.

IRT Woonona Aged Care Village in Wollongong, designed by Wetherill Architects, with curved building façade, planted terraces and outdoor community gathering spaces
Concept render of IRT Woonona Aged Care Village, residential accommodation with natural materials and planted terraces