Care provider CHD Living is refurbishing its historic Surrey Heights Dementia Care Centre.

Situated in Surrey Hills, it boasts a storied past, having been the retreat of acclaimed novelist George Eliot and inventor Henry Cole.

Owned and operated by CHD Living for over 35 years, the centre provides care for individuals living with a variety of complex dementia types. 

The significant renovations, costing just under £4 million, are aimed at enhancing wellbeing, functional life skills, independence and a sense of community among residents.

While the project began in September 2023, the centre has remained operational through this period.

The first phase is expected to conclude this summer, with a full home launch scheduled for the end of 2024, CHD Living said.

The redesign of Surrey Heights is heavily influenced by the HAPPI (Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation) design principles. It also celebrates the centre’s historical significance, by aiming to preserve and improve its architectural features, while prioritising environmental sustainability.

The home will also introduce smart rooms equipped with AI technology, including for falls detection, as well as Alexa Smart Property technology.

The development will bring safe gardens and terraces, alongside the construction of 28 new and 19 refurbished bedrooms, a new conservatory, cinema, spa salon, exercise room and billiards room.

Liakat Hasham, co-founder and CEO of CHD Living, said: “This investment in Surrey Heights is a testament to our family’s commitment to enriching the lives of those we care for.

“By marrying our heritage with the latest innovations in care, we are setting a new norm for what it means to live in a care home.

“Our team members and partners have all put their heart and soul into the project and we are really looking forward to unveiling the centre at the end of the year. We’d like to thank Coutts Healthcare, and all involved.”

Nigel Patel at Coutts Healthcare said: “The Coutts Healthcare team is thrilled to support CHD Living’s second major refurbishment and extension, the first of which was completed in 2023. 

“Our devotion to providing insightful advice and delivering a first-class service is perfectly aligned with CHD Living’s approach to care.

“This partnership showcases our mutual dedication to enhancing the lives of individuals needing support, and by working closely with their team, we’re not just investing in a property; we’re contributing to a project that will make a profound impact, building on a legacy of trust, mutual understanding, and long-standing relationships.

“We’re proud to be part of this transformative journey, helping to facilitate a modern, dynamic, and innovative care environment that will benefit residents for years to come.”

Dawn Kavanagh, home manager, said: “These enhancements will profoundly affect how we support our residents, transforming Surrey Heights into not just a place to live, but a place where they can continue to thrive.”