Baptcare Wattlegrove

A porous seniors development integrating into the broader community

Location: Wurundjeri Country, 50 Gillwell Road, Lalor VIC
Status: Complete

Located within a suburban residential setting, this project had the potential to follow a conventional approach to seniors living. Instead, Baptcare envisioned something more ambitious - an intergenerational, community-connected development that would offer residents greater choice, access to shared amenities, and stronger ties to the broader neighbourhood.

“It’s fantastic to see an investment in our community for older residents that will provide them with greater choice in housing and support options as they age.”
Ricky Kirkham
Mayor, City of Whittlesea

Rather than creating a standalone facility, we approached the project as an integral part of the Mosaic Living Estate, designed to feel like a community within a community, open and inclusive rather than isolated or gated.

The architecture reflects this philosophy, introducing uplifting and contemporary forms that contrast with the surrounding mass-produced housing, adding character and vibrancy to the area.

At the heart of the design are generous internal courtyards, which support passive and active recreation, improve wayfinding, and foster a strong sense of place and wellbeing.

This development means delivering much needed quality aged care services and retirement living options to the Lalor community focusing on those people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Graham Dangerfield
Chief Executive, Baptcare

Designed to support up to 120 residents, the aged care facility provides a dementia-friendly, homelike environment that prioritises comfort, dignity, and connection.

Photography: Dianna Snape