August 2026
Refurbishing Willowmere Care Centre
Hunters has completed the extensive refurbishment of Willowmere Care Centre in Barnet, transforming what was a vacant and severely deteriorated building into a modern, specialist care facility designed around comfort, dignity and independence. Originally known as Apthorp Care Centre, it closed in 2021 to allow essential fire safety and maintenance works to be undertaken, it remained vacant and suffered repeated break-ins and vandalism, leaving much of the building in a considerable state of disrepair. Hunters were commissioned to bring life and practicalities back into the building. What has been created is a welcoming, homely and care-focused experience.
All 119 ensuite bedrooms are for adults living with neurological conditions, dementia and complex mental health needs. Twelve additional bedrooms were provided by replacing the former day care centre and omitting assisted bathrooms that were deemed unnecessary. Each bedroom offers residents a personal space that can be decorated with their own belongings, photographs and familiar objects, helping it feel even more like they’re at home.
A new entrance lobby has replaced the canopy that previously existed, creating a clearer and more welcoming arrival. Windows have been replaced and the metal terrace balustrades have been upgraded to taller glass-and-post to bring in light. Although these additions use different materials then the ones of the previous design, each was carefully selected from other parts of the building to reflect finishes already present, ensuring the new interventions remain consistent with its established palette and theme. Externally, a new entrance lobby has replaced the canopy that previously existed, creating a clearer and more welcoming arrival. Although these additions use different materials than the ones of the previous design, each was carefully selected from other parts of the building to reflect finishes already present, ensuring the new interventions remain consistent with its established palette and theme.
Throughout the building, an accessible layout helps residents with neurological and mobility needs move safely and confidently, while maintaining as much independence as possible. Specialist facilities include a fully equipped therapy gym, spaces that support everyday living skills and an on-site hair salon, allowing residents to continue familiar routines and access important rehabilitation and wellbeing services.
The project has adapted the building to meet modern standards of specialist care. Through thoughtful refurbishment and careful restoration, Willowmere has once again become a welcoming place where residents can feel safe, supported and at home.
The developer was Care Concern Group.
