Project overview
Alexandra Mill, located between Crewe and Shavington, is a contemporary care home providing high-quality residential, nursing and dementia care for people aged 65 and over. Developed by Liberty Care Developments and operated by Anavo Group, the 72 en-suite bedrooms offer both long-term and respite care in a domestic, welcoming environment.
The building occupies a prominent corner site, responding sensitively to a listed barn, nearby bungalows and a roundabout. Split-level massing and careful articulation help the development sit comfortably within its context, while a central access road connects two main residential households. Ground-floor rooms benefit from private patios and a calm, human scale.
Design focuses on dignity, comfort and independence. Residents have access to a café, bar, games room, library, cinema, IT hub, hair and beauty salon, and private dining spaces. Landscaped gardens provide sensory planting, seating areas, and a mix of sociable and secluded spaces that encourage seasonal outdoor activity and engagement.
Dementia care principles informed the design from the outset. Intuitive circulation, visual cues, meandering routes and clear destinations reduce confusion and support wellbeing. Interiors use contrasting materials, natural daylight and enhanced ventilation, while secure access to outdoor spaces connects residents with nature.
Materials were chosen for durability and context. Michelmersh Floren Canopus and Brigand bricks provide a robust palette of strong red tones and textured variation. Resin-bound paths and patios ensure accessibility throughout, and split garden orientations allow sun and shade for different uses.
Sustainability underpins the project through the ‘Be Lean, Be Clean, Be Green’ hierarchy. Passive design strategies, improved fabric performance and a carefully integrated services approach allowed Alexandra Mill to exceed Part L2a carbon requirements by over 10%.
By integrating specialist care, architectural quality and landscape-led design, Alexandra Mill sets a benchmark for modern care provision, balancing wellbeing, functionality and sustainability to meet the needs of residents today and in the future.
