ABBOTSFORD HOME.

Waipawa Mail, Volume XLV, Issue 157, 1 October 1923, Page 2

ABBOTSFORD HOME.

PLANS APPROVED. FOR AN IMPOSING STRUCTURE. The sketch plan prepared by Mr W. P. Finch, architect to the Diocese of Waiapii, for the Abbotsford Home which it is proposed to erect in Waipawa, have been approved by the trustees of the Rathbone Estate and the Standing Committee of the Diocese, and as soon as the necessary specifications have been drawn up tenders will bu invited for (lie work. The orphanage, which will he erected on an area of land fronting the stock road, donated by the Rathbone Brothers, will he one of the most up-to-date institutions in the Dominion. The plan shows an imposing front elevation, with two sleeping - out verandahs running almost the full length of the building. The front entrance is surmounted by a balcony and facade which will pleasingly relieve the straight outlines of the structure. On the left of the entrance hall is the larger of the two girls’ dormitories, 32ft. by 16ft., and on the right the matron's bedroom and sitting room. Further to the right is the boys’ dormitory, 22ft. by 16ft., and this adjoins a commodious play-room, 34ft. by 16ft. To the left of the girls’ dormitory is the assistant matron’s bedroom, which adjoins the second girls’ dormitory, 28ft. by 16ft. Across a 6ft. corridor behind these rooms are the lavatories, bath rooms, bed anil sitting rooms for the staff, and a linen room.

On the left wing is a spacious dining room, 45ft. by 20ft., with kitchen, pantry, scullery, etc., all in convenient proximity. On the right wing are the hospital quarters, with sick room (20ft. by 16ft.), nurse’s bedroom, bathroom, and a nicely situated sun verandah.

An important adjunct to the institution will be the chapel (22ft. by 16ft.), complete with sanctuary and vestrv.

From the particulars given above it will at once be seen that Abbotsford Home will be a credit not only to Waipawa and the Diocese of Waiapu, but it will be a lasting monument to the Rathbone family, to whose generosity the erection of the building will be largely due. The plan of the building may be seen at the “Mail” office for a few’ days.