National Consultancy Services

Retirement Village & Aged Care Environments

We provide expert guidance on creating environments that balance resident experience with operational requirements across the full continuum of care:

• Strategic Planning & Typology Selection - Evaluating which models (household, neighbourhood, small-house) best align with your vision and operational goals

• Master Planning & Site Optimisation - Creating intuitive campus layouts that support residents of varying abilities while maximising operational efficiency

• Spatial Efficiency Analysis - Optimising designs to balance care delivery needs with resident wellbeing

• Refurbishment Prioritisation - Data-driven approaches to identifying high-impact interventions for existing facilities

• Staff Environment Utilisation - Training care teams to effectively leverage design features for improved outcomes

Dementia-Enabling Environments

As a recognised specialist in dementia-enabling design, Sara offers consultancy services focused on creating environments that support people living with dementia:

• Design Principles Development - Creating customised frameworks aligned with specific care philosophies

• Environmental Assessment - Comprehensive analysis using validated tools including Plan-EAT, EAT HC, EADDAT & EASE

• Design Review - Expert evaluation of plans at critical project milestones

• Therapeutic Outdoor Spaces - Development of gardens and external areas that support wellbeing

• Staff Training - Education for care teams on environmental utilisation (in partnership with Caroline Bartle Consulting)

Evidence-Based Expertise

Our consultancy approach is grounded in both practical experience and academic research:

• PhD researcher investigating the relationship between spatial design and clinical outcomes

• Co-chair of the Dementia Alliance International - Environmental Design Special Interest Group (DAI ED-SiG)

• Member of the Dementia Design Aotearoa Steering Group developing national guidelines for detached dwellings

• Dual registration as an architect in New Zealand and Australia

• Extensive experience across diverse typologies from traditional care to innovative models

Engagement Options

Comprehensive Environmental Strategy
Full assessment, planning, and implementation guidance for new developments or major refurbishments.

Targeted Improvement Consultation
Focused assessment and recommendations for specific operational challenges with environmental components.

Design Review Services
Expert evaluation of architect-produced plans to ensure evidence-based principles are properly implemented.

Staff Environment Training
Workshops to help care teams maximise the effectiveness of existing or new environments – in partnership with Caroline Bartle Consulting.

Virtual Consultations
Remote guidance and assessment services for organizations nationwide.

Measurable Returns

Strategic investment in evidence-based design delivers quantifiable benefits:

• Reduced falls through appropriate environmental design

• Decreased distressed behaviors by optimising environmental stimulation

• Improved staff efficiency through optimised spatial arrangements

• Enhanced resident wellbeing through purposeful environmental support

• Increased occupancy through environments that demonstrate quality care

• Better regulatory compliance with purpose-designed spaces

By partnering with The Village Architect, you gain specialized expertise that bridges research and practice, creating environments that truly support both residents and care providers.