From the outset, Heron Bros Ltd knew that Daisy Lodge was an inspiring project that had to provide essential respite facilities for families in Northern Ireland affected by cancer. Coupled with its unique location within one of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful and scenic locations, the company had to ensure they delivered a project that blended into its surroundings and met the high standards in environmental and sustainable design.

The resulting design is a unique mountain style lodge built using materials reflective of the surrounding natural beauty incorporating energy efficient and sustainable technologies and construction practices. Daisy Lodge was designed to reflect a hunting lodge style building that wouldn’t look out of place in a European ski resort. The internal finish resembles a boutique hotel ensuring it felt in no way clinical.

Heron Bros. understands the importance of this facility therefore collaboration with the client, architect and users enabled the development of an outstanding, innovative and sustainable design, positively contributing to the success of the project.

The 16,000sqft, purpose-built facility features six family suites and a well-being suite incorporating a gym and relaxation area, a games room, playroom and two lounge areas. In addition the new respite centre also features a restaurant and a cinema and the accommodation incorporates a shared reception area, office and learning space, meeting rooms and crèche/sensory facilities all designed to facilitate full disabled/medical access to meet with current legislation.

Key considerations of all designs were that they would be safe, fit for purpose and of the highest quality in addition to capturing innovative, discreet and sustainable features in this highly serviced facility.

Gillian Creevy, Chief Executive, Cancer Fund for Children, commented, “As you walk with a family through the doors of Daisy Lodge, into the interior which combines the striking panoramic views of the Mournes with comfort and warmth, you get the sense that the nurturing has begun – so too the feeling of strength and the sense that perhaps this is a family that will, with our help, feel able to start back on a journey of recovery.”