One of Perth’s finest hotels, The Richardson Hotel and Spa, will undergo a complete transformation as part of its conversion to five-star aged-care accommodation.

The Richardson was purchased by premium aged-care providers, Oryx Communities, with the contract finalised last week. The hotel will trade until 16 December and it will then be officially transferred to the new owners.

Based in central West Perth, the facility which will retain The Richardson name, will be the first of its kind in superior aged care in Australia. It will feature 92 units across 8 floors and will retain the hotel ambience that esteemed British architect, Sir Terry Farrell intended when he designed the building in 2005.

The new owners plan to create a unique aged-care residential option for West Australians which supports social activation to give optimal health and well-being outcomes. Residents will be spoilt for choice when entertaining friends and family with premium bar, restaurant and pool-side entertainment areas on the ground floor and elegant community lounge-rooms on each level.

For privacy and independence, each unit also has its own well-appointed kitchenette, lounge-room and balcony. Each level will accommodate 10 to 12 residents who will share access to a common room with dining room, sitting areas and views from the balcony across to Kings Park.

All rooms will be refurbished to ensure ease of access; and the spacious bathrooms are being upgraded to ensure they suit the needs of residents.

Managing Director, Nita Peploe, says the aim is to retain the service levels for which The Richardson was renowned.

“We are not an aged-care facility pretending to be a hotel. We will be offering genuine hotel-service in a warm, hospitable aged-care environment,” she said.

“We are creating an experience that our clients have long been demanding. We understand that people are looking for accommodation that is centrally located, well-appointed and well serviced.”

“Our focus is on creating a beautiful place to live with exceptional support and care levels. This facility is for people who want to feel part of a community and enjoy entertaining friends and family.”

The refurbishment is expected to be completed by July 2018. While the five-star styling and hotel amenity including indoor pool and spa will remain, all rooms will be fitted with additional features to accommodate aged care requirements.

Oryx Communities is a WA family-owned business and its directors have over 20 years’ experience in the premium aged-care industry.