Orkney Care Home Development

Project Overview

The new 40-bed Orkney Care Home replaces the aging St Rognvald’s House, providing modern residential care facilities for the Orkney community. Built on a sloping greenfield site, this project demonstrates our ability to overcome challenging terrain while creating a comfortable, energy-efficient facility that meets the highest standards of care.

The Challenge

Developing a modern care facility on Orkney presented unique logistical challenges, from managing material deliveries to the island to adapting construction methods for the local climate. The sloping site required innovative foundation solutions, while strict healthcare regulations demanded meticulous attention to detail throughout the build.

Our Solution

R Clouston Ltd employed modern methods of construction combined with local expertise to deliver a facility that exceeds expectations. We implemented:

• Custom foundation design to maximize the sloping site’s potential
• Locally-sourced materials where possible to reduce carbon footprint
• Enhanced insulation systems exceeding regulatory requirements
• Purpose-designed communal spaces promoting resident wellbeing
• Integration of smart technology for staff efficiency and resident safety

Sustainable Features

• Ground source heat pump system reducing energy consumption by 40%
• Rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation
• Solar panels providing supplementary power to common areas
• Locally-sourced stone and timber reducing transportation emissions
• Smart building management system optimizing energy usage

Main Contractor & Supply Chain

• R Clouston Ltd – Main contractor responsible for the construction.
• Andy Smith (Senior Contracts Manager, R Clouston Ltd) – Key contact responsible for project delivery.
• Chargehand Joiners – Responsible for day-to-day management of works on-site.
• Joiners, Labourers, and Subcontractors – Various trades involved in construction.
• RSM (Electrical Subcontractor) – Providing electrical installations and maintenance.
• PDP (Plumbing & Mechanical Subcontractors) – Responsible for heating, ventilation, and plumbing.
• RSR Building & Groundworks – Responsible for all site works and building works
• Painting Subcontractors – Handling internal finishes.
• Jake Croy (Flooring Subcontractors) – Responsible for finishes

Local Authorities & Regulators

• Building Control Officers (OIC) – Ensuring compliance with building standards.

Design & Consultancy Team

• Architects (OIC) – Designing the care home and ensuring compliance with building regulations.
• Structural Engineers (Mott Mcdonald) – Ensuring the structural integrity of the building.
• Civil Engineers (Mott Mcdonald) – Overseeing groundwork, drainage, and infrastructure.
• Quantity Surveyors (OIC) – Managing cost estimation, budgeting, and financial tracking.
• Electrical Engineers (ACTS) – Responsible for electrical design
• Health & Safety Consultants – Ensuring compliance with HSE regulations.

End Users & Community

• Future Residents & Families – Individuals who will live in the care home.
• Care Home Staff & Management – Employees who will operate and maintain the facility.
• Local Community & Neighbours – Residents and businesses near the development.
• Community Councils & Interest Groups – Local advocacy groups ensuring the project aligns with community needs.