Liverpool Mutual Homes completes convent conversion
LIVERPOOL Mutual Homes (LMH) has completed the transformation of a 19th century convent into emergency accommodation for homeless families.
The façade of the 1870s Victorian properties – complete with marble pillar entrances – has been retained, while a side wing and rear extension have been added.
The £3.6m project designed by John McCall Architects has created 16 self-contained apartments for families. It was delivered by Tameside-based Bardsley Construction.
A range of green technologies have been installed including a green sedum living roof, photovoltaic solar cells, flat-plate solar collectors and heat pumps converting hot air into energy and to provide hot water.
Chief Executive at Liverpool Mutual Homes, Steve Coffey, said: “This scheme addresses many of our key priorities as a social landlord: homelessness, supporting people, regeneration and sustainability. The building was dark and desperately in need of modernising.
“People using the centre now have self-contained apartments with private bathrooms and kitchens and a wide range of communal facilities to help them rebuild their lives.
“The scale of the project was enormous. It took three months to demolish and clear the internal structures and attach the original building to the new extension while the 140-year-old shell was retained. This allowed us to install some of the most innovative green technology available so the centre is sustainable and has a light, airy ambience that is uplifting with a very modern feel. We have also insulated the building, replaced all the windows and roofs and replaced the heating, boiler and electrical systems.”
