The Villa Build
How Villa Olivo went from concept to completion
The Concept & Vision of Villa Olivo
Built for Accessibility from Day One
Unlike many holiday properties that add accessibility features as an afterthought, Villa Olivo was designed and built with wheelchair users at the very centre of every decision. Wide paths, ramped access, an adapted kitchen, spacious doorways, and a pool hoist with disabled access were all planned into the original build — not retrofitted later.
Concept & Vision
Concept artwork created. The brief: a single-level villa with every accessibility feature built in from the ground up — not retrofitted.
Through to December 2015
Foundations laid and structural work begins on the main building.
Through to January 2016
Roof installation, interior framing, and utility systems put in place.
Through to February 2016
Kitchen development, door and window installation, and interior features fitted. Adapted kitchen workspaces and accessible ramp routes planned.
Through to April 2016
Exterior landscaping with AstroTurf, flower beds, and hardscaping. Pool area and hoist installation.
May 2016 — Villa Ready
Villa Olivo welcomed its first guests. Every aspect of the build — from wide doorways to the hydraulic pool hoist — was designed to give guests with disabilities the same holiday experience as any other visitor.
Accessibility Features Built In
- Single-level living throughout — no steps anywhere
- Wide doorways and corridors for wheelchair access
- Ramped access to and around the building
- Adapted kitchen with fold-away table for wheelchair users
- Roll-in shower with fold-down seat and grab rails
- Electric profile bed in main bedroom
- Hydraulic pool hoist for independent pool access
- Accessible AstroTurf gardens on two levels
- Secure electronic gate for safe off-road parking