Holistic care nestles into a therapeutic landscape
The highly personalised care model of Iona currently finds its spatial expression in a loose grouping of buildings set in a rural landscape. POLO Urbanism devises a framework for future growth that takes root in this idyllic setting with which it is so intimately entwined.
A resident-centred model of care
Iona is a non-profit organisation providing comprehensive care for individuals with intellectual disabilities, run according to anthroposophic principles. Residents live, work and socialise on-site, in an environment that emulates life outside. Within the living groups caregivers cultivate a homely, supportive atmosphere.
This personal and labour-intensive approach has proven highly effective in addressing residents’ needs. POLO Urbanism reinforces these strengths in a sustainable and future-proof development model. Central to this approach is the preservation of residents’ autonomy, dignity and sense of home through well-designed supportive spaces.
POLO Urbanism approached the assignment holistically, drawing on a creative interplay of spatial design and research. In-depth knowledge of Iona’s philosophy and operations was acquired through dialogue and co-creative sessions with stakeholders—from residents to caregivers and administrators. Throughout this process, financial feasibility and compliance with planning regulations remained paramount.
The result is a shared, future-proof vision. Rather than prescribing a single outcome, it establishes a flexible framework that will guide phased development over time.
Development loops & community links
The proposed spatial strategy builds on the existing pattern of small, detached houses in a green landscape, central to Iona’s identity. A new circulation loop connects existing and future buildings, creating a development backbone which adds legibility and preserves open space. The central area within the loop serves as a communal landscape for shared activities.
In addition to the existing living units, our project introduces an intermediate living group to support residents transitioning from childhood to adult care. New buildings feature accessible living spaces on the ground floor, while upper levels accommodate supporting functions. This allows measured densification without sacrificing scale or character. Internally, efficient caregiving is realised through visual connections, shared supervision and a clear separation between day and night zones.
Finally, the project carefully opens Iona to its wider surroundings through the addition of a separate public loop, a new entrance plaza and community facilities such as a bakery, playgrounds and farmyard spaces. These link Iona to regional tourist networks and create measured opportunities for residents to connect with visitors. Through these calibrated spatial transitions between public and private realms, care is no longer isolated or hidden, but embedded in everyday landscapes. It showcases how care environments can contribute to rural communities while safeguarding the needs and rhythms of their residents.
2560 Kessel Nijlen
Belgium
