The Calvert Trust enables people with disabilities, together with their families and friends, to achieve their potential through the challenge of outdoor adventure. The new pool is part of a major schedule at their Lake District site, with The Majik House commissioned by Mason Gillibrand Architects to deliver some added ‘sensory sparkle’.
Tim Burrow, Partner at The Majik House tells us more: “This has to be one of the most interesting and unique projects we’ve ever been involved with. Julian Handy at Mason Gillibrand presented some amazing concepts for the pool which meant a team of very specialised contractors had to be assembled, of which we were one.”
The pool is fully accessible via a tracking hoist, steps and graduated entry, and is kept at hydrotherapy temperatures. In addition, it has a swim-in jacuzzi and an adjustable floor to allow changes in depth.
“Our remit was to provide the automated ‘scenarios’ both in and around the pool.” continues Tim, “Working closely with the architect, we have developed an interactive sensory lighting, audio and video projector system which is operated from a simple controller, in this case an iPad.”
“Staff, carers and the disabled children themselves can choose the colour and intensity of the lighting in and around the pool, select music or ambient sounds they want to hear and also control some of the functions of the pool (such as the water jets). It’s quite a sensory experience to say the least.”
Initially, the system has been pre-programmed with 20 scenarios to choose from, a comprehensive range of options that include relaxing hues of light and the sound of whale song flowing through the water to more up-tempo music and lighting suitable for high energy exercise sessions.
“We first started discussing the project around 18 months ago – planning, specifying and then working with other local contractors. It has been simply brilliant to see such an inspirational and forward thinking concept become a reality.” concludes Tim Burrow.
“What is most impressive is that the Calvert Trust are a charity; they and their supporters have worked tirelessly to raise a significant amount of money to achieve this ground-breaking facility to help provide amazing sensory experiences for young people with physical and learning disabilities.”
The new pool facility at the Calvert Trust was opened to Royal approval on Tuesday 15th November, with HRH The Countess of Wessex performing the official unveiling.
To find out more about The Majik House’s involvement with this ground-breaking project, contact us on 015242 73578 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
