A ‘FIRST of its kind’ in Scotland facility is set to become a haven for families in North Ayrshire.

The new Residential and Respite (R&R) facility will be a ‘safe, fun, modern environment that feels like a home’ for young people.

That’s the vision of Norr Architects who are designing the internal and external elements of both the R&R facility and new Additional Support Needs (ASN) School which will be situated on playing fields next to Auchenharvie Academy.

Early preparation works have started on site with an official groundbreaking ceremony due to take place in September.

Brian O’Donnell from Norr Architects believes the R&R facility – which will feature eight rooms for respite care and eight rooms for the residential element – will become a special place for families.

He said: “The most important thing is that the R&R doesn’t look like an institution. It is going to be a safe, fun, modern environment that feels like a home for the young people.

“When you put all the accommodation together it’s quite a large building and the key for us was to try and make it feel like home.

“It’s important we break down that scale so it doesn’t feel like just a big soulless building. It’s going to be situated near the existing residential area so it feels like its an extension of that.

“It will be a very welcoming facility. Identity has been key in the design process.

This is especially evident in the direct access, via a residential style driveway to the buildings, providing the R&R with independence from the school but also a continued connection via additional pedestrian/vehicular links as part of the wider Campus.”

As well as making it feel like home on the inside, the architects say the gardens will provide a range of opportunities for the young people.

He added: “Our Landscape Architects ERZ understand the importance of a safe, fun and responsive outdoor space and have carried out a great deal of research looking at the best ways to achieve it.

“We will be creating a village square between the buildings to welcome residents / visitors and staff. A private garden space will be created for each building with areas to play, learn life skills and relax.

“The environment will truly enhance the experience of everyone who visits, complements the architecture of the Campus and demonstrate North Ayrshire Council’s vision of inclusive learning and living.

“It is now extremely exciting and we’re all really looking forward to work starting and watching our vision become a reality.”