DESIGN
New Ryman Village Named After Co-Founder Ryman Healthcare has been pioneering retirement living since 1984, and currently has 36 villages across New Zealand.
ne of Ryman’s newest developments, the Kevin Hickman retirement village, was named after Ryman Healthcare’s co-founder, and features contemporary design, uninterrupted views of the Riccarton Park Racecourse, and luxurious amenities. New developments build on learnings of the past and trends of the future; evidenced by Ryman’s adjusted approach to design in response to Covid and to accommodate the next generation of retirees. Ryman Healthcare’s CEO David King reported the biggest design change resulting from the pandemic is taking an adaptable approach to spaces and building. “When the pandemic hit, the protocols around social distancing changed the way our villages were occupied and used,” he said.
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Village Business
“A lot of PPE gear and other equipment quickly started turning up in the villages. All of this needed to be stored somewhere. Multi-use spaces are of great benefit for our villages, and providing these is something we are focusing on a lot more going forward. “We need to be more agile for many reasons whether it be building supply shortages, last minute product changes, right down to how the spaces within our villages function.” A well-known point of difference of Ryman villages is the incorporation of who they were named after. “With this village being named after Kevin, it is no secret that he loves his horses,” said King. “The location, viewing platforms and lounges are examples of this.” Modern architectural designs, materials and aesthetics are also a huge part of the village.