Vranch House is a centre for the treatment of over 2,000 outpatients with physical difficulties, a provider of various therapies throughout Devon and an independent Day School in Exeter for children aged 2 to 12 with significant physical difficulties.
Hydrotherapy has always been on the agenda at Vranch House, but this vital treatment has recently been given a new lease of life with a completely refurbished state-of-the-art indoor heated swimming pool, including Altro Whiterock hygienic wall sheet.
Architect Carole Trim carried out the redesign of the new facility and, for her, it was a challenge with love. “For pupils at Vranch House, the hydrotherapy pool is an area of escape and pleasure, where they experience greater freedoms in the water and so more balanced in their movement,” says Carole.
“It’s an integral part of the education at Vranch House and has huge emotional and physical benefits.”
The primary aim was to create a fun, colourful, stimulating and enjoyable space that would deliver a fantastic sensory experience; somewhere pupils would look forward to being, and where staff could really take the time to work with the children in an environment purpose-built for their needs.
“The walling choices were integral to this vision. Altro was a key partner on the project because they were sympathetic to the broader picture and what we wanted to achieve for the children. Their level of experience and understanding helped us to find a solution that delivered across the board; on quality, safety, aesthetics and durability.
“We have brought more colour and light into the hydrotherapy by installing Altro Whiterock White hygienic wall sheet throughout the interior, and using it as a movie screen. It has a smooth, white surface which is perfect for displaying and reflecting colours, images and shapes to accompany music during therapy — a thrilling experience for pupils as the light and sound bounces off the walls and water.
“This product ticked a lot of boxes on so many levels. It would not only boost the sensory and visual experience for pupils, but also prove a hygienic, practical choice. I have specified Altro Whiterock many times in the past very successfully, as an ideal alternative to tiles for environments where both hygiene and aesthetics are paramount.”
“I was very impressed with the professional attitude of everyone involved in this project. Altro responded to our needs immediately, got involved and were as passionate as we were about creating the best possible result and the right solution for the wonderful children at Vranch House.”
Tom Warren, Project Manager at Vranch House, says: “The new hydrotherapy pool has brought another dimension to life for pupils at Vranch House - everyone who uses it, both students and staff, are thrilled.
“It’s constantly in demand, and can have a very powerful influence; children we might rarely get a response from open up like never before when they are in the pool. It’s quite magical.
“Cleaning has been very easy. The Altro Whiterock looks as good as the day it was installed.”