“Recognising the need is the primary condition for design.”

Charles Eames

In a time when aged care residences are still grappling with the challenges brought on by spikes in COVID-19 in the wider community, Oryx Communities stands out, not just for its innovative architectural design and compassionate care approach, but also as a trailblazer in the Aged Care industry.

The Royal Commission into Aged Care identified the “small household model” as beneficial, a recognition that has now been formalised in the National Aged Care design principles and guidelines. Oryx, however, has been ahead of the curve, having implemented this model at both The Richardson in West Perth and The Queenslea in Claremont well before its industry-wide endorsement.

Architectural Excellence Meets Health Challenges

As well as aged care specialists, the founders of Oryx also include qualified architects, and close collaboration with award-winning studios like Hassell Studio and SPH Architecture + Interiors has enabled them to create homes that redefine residential aged care. The designs of The Queenslea Claremont, The Melvista Nedlands and The Richardson in West Perth are testimony to this commitment, by focusing on ‘de-institutionalising’ long-term residential aged care care environments that provides spaces for living with dignity, comfort and companionship.

The Small Household Model: A Proactive, Safer Approach to aged care

At the core of Oryx’s philosophy is the small household model, which sees ‘households’ with an average of 12 suites at each home, centered around shared amenities such as kitchens, dining and communal living areas. This approach not only fosters a sense of community but has also shown to be instrumental in enhancing resident quality of life and significantly improving infection control.

The effectiveness of this innovative living model in improved infection control has been tested during recent increases in COVID-19 cases in the wider-community, The Richardson and The Queenslea have demonstrated considerably lower infection rates compared to their more traditionally designed counterparts. Furthermore a recent outbreak of Norovirus had limited spread at The Queenslea, which we believe is in part to the innovative floorplans as well as the staff’s hard work and compliance with infection control measures such as hand hygiene practices.

Spacious Living and Natural Integration

Beyond the architectural innovation, Oryx offers some of the largest aged care suites in the country, with private balconies and living rooms, spanning up to 65 square meters. The thoughtful design eliminates long, impersonal, hospital-like corridors and includes beautifully landscaped gardens and courtyards, to enhance residents’ connection with nature

Holistic Care in a Supportive Environment

The commitment to holistic care is evident in every aspect of an Oryx home. Supported by a dedicated workforce, each small household fosters lasting relationships and empathy. Wellness Centres, at both The Richardson and The Queenslea, further promote the physical and mental wellbeing of residents, which remains crucial as we age.

Choosing a Safe and Quality Aged Care home

As families consider aged care options amidst health crises, Oryx’s innovative design’s and care approach stand as a benchmark of safety and quality. By adopting the small household model — a practice now recognised as a standard, yet pioneered by Oryx — the residences ensure a high standard of living and effective infection control, maintaining all residents’ safety and wellbeing.

We invite you to take a personal tour of our homes to see how our homes provide safe havens in challenging times. Oryx Communities is proud to be an innovator in the industry, setting standards for quality and safety in aged care.

From your friends at Oryx

The Richardson Aged Care Phone (08) 9381 2800
The Queenslea Aged Care Phone (08) 6280 1900
The Queenslea Retirement Living Apartments Phone (08) 6280 1999