CARE SAVES $120,000 Skope Constructions share how they save their clients $100,000+ without compromising quality
In the video below, learn how Calvary Aged Care saved $250,000 on their Kalingo Lodge project using Skope Constructions
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Calvary Aged Care
How did Calvary Aged Care save $250,000 on Kalingo Lodge?
In this story, we spoke with Paul Crane, who was in charge of a project for Calvary Care at their Kalingo Lodge home in Cessnock. The project was an exceptional success and managed to save over $250,000.
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Hebburn Lodge
How Calvary Aged Care saved $80,000 on Hebburn Lodge?
David Arguelles, Linear Project Management, reveals how utilising Skope Constructions’ services he could complete his Hebburn project saving Calvary Aged Care - $80,000.
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St Catherines Aged Care
St Catherines Aged Care saves $120,000 on Marsfield project
With a strict budget, St Catherine’s turned to Skope Constructions Not only did they achieve their renovation goals, but they also saved a remarkable $120,000, thanks to Skope’s strategic planning, collaborative approach.
How to save money on your Aged Care construction project
Aged Care Construction: Quality Without Compromise
As the founder and CEO of Skope Construction, I’ve seen first-hand how smart planning, dedicated teamwork, and strategic value management can help clients achieve outstanding results without exceeding their budget. In the aged care sector, where both quality and comfort are essential, we understand that every dollar saved must never compromise the high standards expected by residents, staff, and their families.
Our recent projects with Calvary and St Catherine’s Aged Care are prime examples. By taking a hands-on, collaborative approach with each client, our team at Skope Construction identified and implemented strategies that led to significant savings—$250,000 for Calvary and $120,000 for St Catherine’s—without sacrificing the quality or finishes of these vital facilities.
Achieving these results means going beyond conventional cost-cutting. We carefully reviewed building materials, simplified design aspects where possible, and worked closely with our partners to identify alternatives that met or even exceeded the clients’ standards for durability and aesthetics. The success of these projects is a testament to Skope’s commitment to transparency and ongoing communication, ensuring that both projects stayed within budget while meeting every quality specification.
In this magazine, we share insights from our work with aged care facilities and highlight practical ways to manage construction costs effectively.
For Skope Construction, it’s not just about building; it’s about building relationships and delivering outcomes that genuinely benefit the people who depend on us.
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Uniting Narla Village
Michael Turner shares how Skope delivered while averting a crisis
Uniting, Senior Project Manager, Michael Turner shared his insights on how Skope contributed to transforming their facility into a more homely environment while overcoming significant challenges.
John Carolan, Founder & CEO Skope Constructions
Calvary Aged Care Saves
$250,000
Paul Crane, shares how savings were made without compromising quality?
One of the most significant challenges an aged care provider faces is undertaking a complete facility overhaul while staying within the allotted time frame and budget.
In this story, we spoke with Paul Crane, who was in charge of a project for Calvary Care at their Kalingo Lodge home in Cessnock.
The project was an exceptional success and managed to save over $250,000. We asked Paul Crane a series of questions to learn about how this was achieved.
Why was this project so successful in saving Calvary Aged Care $250,000?
“Yes, the success of this project is largely attributed to Skope Constructions,” said Paul Crane.
“They were appointed to complete works for us at our Cessnock facility after they were successful in the tender process.
“This facility was a large, operating aged care home, making it difficult to carry out construction while preserving the comfort and convenience of our residents.
“However, Skope did a fantastic job, and we were very pleased with the results.”
One of the main challenges of this project was to work within a limited time frame and budget, but Skope was able to save $100,000 by reutilizing the existing ventilation system.
“Skope believed that the existing system could be continued, and as it turned out, this was the case, saving Calvary significant funds during the construction phase,” Paul added.
Paul Crane, who was the Asset Manager at Calvary during this project, has worked with many builders over the years.
When asked why he found Skope Constructions particularly easy to work with, Paul said, “John and Brent, along with Guy Smith, their on-site manager, have a deep understanding of their needs in aged care.
“They know the importance of maintaining a controlled, organized, and peaceful environment for our residents.
“They worked closely with us, and communication lines were always open, which allowed for any issues to be raised, communicated, and resolved quickly.
“This type of effort to take care of our residents during the construction phase was much appreciated.”
Skope Constructions also helped save Calvary an additional $150,000 by suggesting various cost-saving alternatives for flooring and equipment.
Paul mentioned that it is not common to work with builders who look for ways to save the client money, but having worked with many builders, Paul believes that Skope Constructions are always focused on delivering value back to their clients.
This project was carried out on a live site, which posed some challenges.
“The key to executing a project like this in a live site is to have a good plan and a good
understanding of the client and resident needs,” said Paul.
Did Skope Construction keep you appraised of what was happening on site?
“During the construction phase, it’s important to keep communication lines open,” Paul said.
“The part of the home being refurbished was vacant, but there were still residents nearby, so careful consideration was taken to minimize any risk of noise or hazard to those residents.
“We must look after our residents’ safety at all times.”
Paul explained that Skope Constructions were very good at understanding these risks and putting in place effective mitigation strategies.
When asked why he would recommend Skope Constructions to someone in a similar role, Paul commented.
“Skope has a great understanding of aged care, which is not an easy environment to work in,” Paul said. “They have a strong focus on planning and are always open to listening and responding to their client’s needs and priorities.
“They also made sure that their subcontractors were aware of the processes necessary to operate safely and effectively in this environment.”
Seven Reasons For This Exceptional Result:
1. Cost Savings through Innovative Solutions: Skope Constructions saved Calvary Aged Care $100,000 by reusing the existing ventilation system, reducing the need for new installations.
2. Collaborative and Open Communication: Skope maintained open lines of communication, enabling quick resolution of any issues and ensuring that all team members were aligned with the project’s goals.
3. Understanding of Aged Care Needs: Skope’s team, led by John, Brent, and on-site manager Guy Smith, demonstrated a deep understanding of the unique needs in aged care, ensuring a controlled and peaceful environment for residents.
4. Additional Cost-Saving Suggestions: Skope proposed alternative, cost-effective options for flooring and equipment, saving an additional $150,000 without compromising quality.
5. Effective Risk Management on a Live Site: Skope carefully planned and implemented noise and safety mitigation strategies to minimize disruption for residents living nearby the renovation areas.
6. Focus on Resident Safety and Comfort: Skope’s approach prioritized the comfort and safety of residents throughout the construction, reflecting a client-centered approach crucial in aged care settings.
7. Strong Planning and Attention to Detail: With a focus on meticulous planning, Skope ensured that their subcontractors understood the necessary procedures to work safely and efficiently in an aged care environment, enhancing overall project safety and effectiveness.
Hebburn Lodge Saves
$80,000
David Arguelles reveals how Skope’s team helped him find savings on this Hebburn Lodge project
Linear Project Management’s David Arguelles was tasked by Calvary Aged Care with keeping costs down during the renovation.
One of the challenges David faced was the need to undertake a renovation within a live environment where one of the wings was already occupied by a large group of residents. However, by utilising Skope Constructions’ services, David could complete the project saving Calvary Aged Care$80,000.
In this interview, David shares how Skope Constructions helped him to create these savings and why he is happy to recommend John Carolan and his team.
“The Calvary Cessnock facility had one of their wings within
a live environment which was vacant because Skope Constructions had previously completed an earlier stage,” said David Arguelles.
“The residents that were technically in Hebburn Lodge had already moved across to the Kalingo Lodge, allowing the new work to commence.”
“Like many projects, there are extra costs. In the case of Hebburn Lodge, there was a need for a new mechanical ventilation system and the replacement of toilets in various locations.”
David, how did John Carolan and the Skope Constructions team save Calvary Aged Care on this particular project?
“In terms of the mechanical ventilation system, the air
conditioning system, they managed to provide a fiftythousand-dollar saving,” said David.
“The mechanical engineer designed a system that replaced all the duct work within the ceiling spaces.
“Refurbishing the ventilation system was very costly, and the associated time implications added to the work involved.
“So, there was a saving of approximately fifty thousand dollars in fixing the ventilation system, not only on the cost side of things but also on the time side.
“The other savings Skope were able to make concerned the toilet pans in the residence ensuites. This was a real bonus as the team at
Skope Constructions found an alternative toilet to what had been originally specified. They got a sample of the new toilets. We reviewed it and provided that sample to Calvary.
They checked it and accepted it would be a good and compliant toilet.
“That was another saving in the order of thirty thousand dollars for the project.”
David also spoke highly of Skope Construction’s approach to communication and problemsolving as the project evolved.
“Given this facility was in the Hunter Valley region, it’s not somewhere you can just drive to in an hour, it’s a two-anda-half-hour drive each way, and we would conduct weekly or fortnightly site meetings
with Calvary and Skope Constructions,” said David. “The way Skope operates is that they are very open and transparent with everything. “So, we’re on the phone every couple of days or daily, talking to the site manager and looking ahead at any potential issues that might arise.
“They are always willing to work with us to find a solution to any issues that arise, making my job easier.”
Thanks to David’s leadership and expertise, Calvary Aged Care was able to refurbish their Hebburn Village site in Cessnock successfully, saving in total eighty thousand dollars in the process.
Having worked on many projects with Skope Constructions, David was more than happy to recommend the Skope Constructions team to others.
As we concluded our interview with David, he commented, “With Skope Constructions helping you, many other organisations would also be able to save costs on their renovation projects.
“I know from first-hand experience that John and his team work hard to ensure their clients are successful by saving them from unnecessary expense.”
St Catherines Saves $120K
Renovating an aged care facility can be a daunting project, especially when it’s essential to remain operational throughout construction.
This was the challenge facing St Catherine’s Aged Care as they embarked on a refurbishment project to enhance facilities and meet evolving care standards. With a strict budget and the
need for seamless coordination, St Catherine’s turned to Linear Project Management and Skope Constructions to guide the project to success.
Not only did they achieve their renovation goals, but they also saved a remarkable $120,000, thanks to Skope’s strategic planning, collaborative approach, and strong dedication to transparency.
A Transparent and Collaborative Approach
Transparency and open communication are often said to be the backbone of successful construction projects, and for this renovation, Skope Constructions truly embodied these principles.
Philip Tsioutis, Linear Project Management highlighted that
How St Catherine’s Aged Care Saved on Marsfield project
Skope’s transparency was instrumental in achieving project success.
“What I’m most proud of with Skope is that they identify key items on-site that do come up,” Philip explained.
“They don’t shy away from the transparency. They actually flag things, and we can work things through together... We’re
all trying to deliver the same project altogether, so it’s best off that we all talk about it, have that transparency, and work through it together.”
This approach went beyond mere communication. Skope actively involved both the project management team and the client in key decisionmaking moments, empowering St Catherine’s to make
informed choices on necessary adjustments. By including Linear Project Management and St Catherine’s in each discussion, Skope ensured that the entire team could move forward with confidence, reducing potential delays and aligning all parties on the budget and project priorities.
Strategic Cost Savings Through Value Management
One of the standout aspects of Skope’s management of the project was their approach to value management, a process that carefully assesses and adjusts plans to enhance value without compromising on quality.
This approach was integral in helping St Catherine’s stay within their budget while realizing substantial cost savings.
From the early planning stages, Skope brought their extensive experience and expertise to the table. Philip noted, “They added value through doing a bit of value engineering exercise that was peer-reviewed by all consultants, including ourselves.”
This “value engineering” involved identifying areas where costs could be minimized, such as alternative finishes and materials that maintained quality while reducing expenses.
For example, high-gloss finishes were swapped for standard laminates, offering a cost-effective yet aesthetically pleasing solution.
These changes were not arbitrary; they were the result of collaborative discussions with the design team and careful evaluation by consultants. This peer-reviewed process ensured that each choice was aligned with the project’s goals.
Philip elaborated, “We didn’t sacrifice the quality of the work... the actual structure itself, we didn’t modify. We
adapted alternative methods, but in essence, the foundations were still there, and a quality project was delivered.”
Innovative Problem Solving in a Live Environment
One of the most challenging aspects of this project was completing renovations while St Catherine’s remained operational, with residents continuing to live in the facility.
This scenario required meticulous planning to ensure that construction activities did not disrupt daily routines or compromise resident safety. Skope worked closely with Linear Project Management and St Catherine’s to create a phased approach that allowed different sections of the facility to remain fully functional.
“Skope are very capable of working in live environments,” said Philip. “They worked with us to break down the project into stages, relocating some residents to other areas of the facility when necessary.”
Skope’s team carefully scheduled noisier activities to occur during times that were less disruptive, and they established safe, restricted zones where construction could proceed without interfering with resident access or daily routines.
By creating clear lines of communication and ensuring that each phase was executed thoughtfully, Skope minimized inconvenience for both staff and residents, earning the trust and appreciation of St Catherine’s management.
“Skopeareverycapable ofworkinginlive environmentsand their transparency wasinstrumentalin achievingproject success.“
PhilipTsioutis, LinearProjectManagement
Direct and Hands-On Involvement from Leadership
Another distinguishing feature of Skope’s approach was the hands-on involvement of their founder and Managing Director, John Carolan. In the construction industry, it’s not uncommon for CEOs and directors to be involved only at a high level, often leaving day-to-day management to site supervisors and project managers. However, John Carolan took a very different approach with St Catherine’s.
“The founder of Skope, John Carolan, really goes out of his way to keep in touch on a day-to-day basis,” said Philip. “Dealing with John gives that
confidence that he’s involved in delivering the project himself. He guides his team really well and provides that hands-on experience throughout.” John’s direct engagement meant that Skope’s commitment to quality and client satisfaction was evident in every stage of the project.
Delivering Results Through Trust and Open Communication
By the end of the project, St Catherine’s management was not only satisfied with the cost savings but also impressed by the seamless communication and consistent collaboration they experienced with Skope. The project delivered on
time, and the team achieved significant financial savings without compromising on quality or functionality. This strong rapport built between Skope and St Catherine’s has led to continued work between the two, demonstrating the long-term value that Skope’s approach brings to its clients.
Philip summed it up well when he described the project’s success, saying, “It was a transparent process where the communication was open during that whole construction period... Skope’s open communication entrusts us and the client as well. They are guided through the entire process and educated through that process as well.”
Uniting Narla Village Belmont, NSW
Michael Turner from Uniting shares how Skope delivered while averting a crisis
The refurbishment of Uniting Narla, a residential aged care facility in Belmont North, NSW, showcases the exceptional capabilities of Skope Constructions.
Senior Project Manager Michael Turner from Uniting shared his insights on how Skope contributed to transforming the facility into a more homely environment while overcoming significant challenges, including the unforeseen discovery of a major water main.
A New Model of Care
The refurbishment of Uniting Narla was part of Uniting’s broader transition to the household model of care, shifting aged care environments from clinical to homelike settings.
Michael Turner explained, “We are moving from what you know as a very clinical environment
to more of a household environment which puts the needs of all residents first.
We were taking out clinical canteen servers and putting in domestic kitchens, making the place look more like a home and less like a hospital.”
Choosing the Right Partner
Selecting a construction company for this project was critical, as it required experience in aged care and the ability to work in a live operational environment.
“Skope Constructions was familiar with working on our sites and live operational environments,” Michael noted. The selection followed a competitive tender process, with Skope winning based on an 80% weighting on price and 20% on non-price criteria.
“On non-price factors, we looked at their previous experience, safety record, proposed contract program, and their subcontractor base. We wanted to ensure they engaged local trades where possible. Skope checked all those boxes,” said Michael.
Navigating Challenges During COVID
The project faced significant delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We were absolutely 100 percent devastated by COVID. It took twice as long as the initial program,” Michael recalled.
Despite the challenges, Skope’s team remained accommodating. “They had a full-time onsite foreman who was the main conduit with our staff, ensuring residents’ needs were prioritized. At the end of the day, it is someone’s home, and they treated it with respect.”
Michael shared that residents were enthusiastic about the changes. “Residents loved it. They were so appreciative of the work and were engaged and asking questions throughout the process. For them, it was an interesting experience.”
Averting a Costly Crisis
One of the project’s standout moments involved Skope’s management of an unexpected challenge: the discovery of a 500mm water main near a proposed new ambulance bay. “Had it not been for their approach, this could have added $50,000 to the project,” Michael explained.
Rather than rushing into the work, Skope’s team identified the issue and implemented temporary shoring to support the main. “If they had been careless or profit-driven, they could have insisted on moving the main, which wasn’t in the budget. Their diligence averted a cost blowout and allowed the project to move forward without relocating the water main.”
Trust and Professionalism
Michael emphasized the trust Uniting places in Skope Constructions. “They’re professional, flexible, and always willing to go the extra mile. During COVID, they could have enforced delay costs as per the contract, but they didn’t. They understood we were all
in the same boat and worked with us to get through it.” He added, “If there are any defects or issues, they come back with a solution. It’s never about denying responsibility; it’s about finding a way forward.”
Future Collaborations
Skope Constructions’ successful delivery at Uniting Narla has solidified their position as a preferred contractor for Uniting. “They’re on our panel and are currently working on other projects, including rolling room refurbishments and independent living unit upgrades. The quality of their work is always great,” said Michael.
A Proven Track Record
Reflecting on Skope’s past projects, Michael highlighted their work at Uniting Northaven in Turramurra. “The quality was great, the job was completed within the timeline, and their consideration for residents and staff was exceptional. They accommodated strict working hours and meal times, making the process as seamless as possible.”
Standing the Test of Time
A year after the completion of the Uniting Narla refurbishment, Michael affirmed the durability of Skope’s work. “We haven’t had any major recalls due to defects. In an aged care facility, wear and tear happens quickly, but their work has stood up to the test of time.”
For Michael Turner, Skope Constructions represents a reliable, clientfocused partner. “They’re professional, accommodating, and prioritize the residents’ best interests. If someone in a similar role asked me about Skope, I’d recommend them without hesitation.”
Skope Constructions’ work at Uniting Narla is a testament to their expertise in aged care refurbishments, their ability to navigate complex challenges, and their commitment to delivering quality outcomes that truly make a difference.
Why Aged Care companies trust the Skope team
When it comes to managing construction projects in aged care facilities, the stakes are high. Residents’ comfort, safety, and wellbeing must remain a priority, even as major works are underway. This is where Skope Constructions stands out. “We specialise in creating environments that balance functionality, comfort, and safety, all while minimising disruption to the daily lives of residents,” says John Carolan, Director of Skope Constructions.
Together with his brother Brent, John brings over 40 years of experience in construction, project management, and property economics to the company, ensuring every project is handled with care and expertise.
A Reputation Built on Trust and Transparency
Transparency is at the core of Skope’s operations, earning the company a loyal client base in the aged care sector. “We keep our clients informed at every stage of the project,” explains John. This commitment
to open communication is reflected in every phase of their work, from planning and design to construction and handover. Their client-centric approach ensures that aged care providers feel confident throughout the process.
David Arguelles of Linear Project Management shares his experience: “The way Skope operates is very open and transparent. They go out of their way to help, and they’re always willing to work with us to find practical solutions. On the Hebburn Lodge refurbishment, we saved $80,000 directly because of their efforts.”
Delivering Excellence in Live Environments
One of Skope’s standout qualities is its ability to execute complex projects in live environments. For Calvary’s Kalingo Lodge in Cessnock, Skope undertook the refurbishment of 30 aged care resident rooms, including ensuites, kitchens, and common areas, while the facility remained operational. The project also included fire upgrades and landscaping. Paul
Crane, former Asset Manager at Calvary Aged Care, recalls, “Skope delivered a fantastic outcome while managing the challenges of working in a live aged care facility. They saved us $250,000 and ensured minimal disruption to residents.”
Similarly, at Uniting’s Edinglassie Lodge in Penrith, Skope demonstrated their ability to manage large-scale upgrades in an active facility. The project included retrofitting fire systems, enhancing disability access, and refurbishing 70 resident rooms. “They accommodated additional requests seamlessly and completed the project within budget and contingency,” says Mattia Bianchetti Fettolini, Senior Project Manager for Uniting Aged Care. “Proactive communication and excellent stakeholder management allowed this project to run smoothly.”
Innovation That Enhances Lives
Skope’s projects are not just about construction; they’re about creating environments that enhance the lives of
residents and staff. Their designs often include thoughtful features such as sensory gardens, modern kitchens, and functional living spaces tailored to meet the specific needs of aged care facilities. “We pride ourselves on delivering innovative solutions that cater to both operational needs and resident comfort,” says John.
This innovation extends to their work on luxury senior living projects. For example, the “Mornington” project in Mona Vale involved constructing 16 seniors’ apartments complete with extensive landscaping and sustainable design elements. Such projects showcase Skope’s ability to blend aesthetic appeal with practical functionality.
A Commitment to Cost Efficiency and Sustainability
Another key reason aged care companies choose Skope is
their ability to deliver costefficient solutions without compromising on quality.
By employing value engineering techniques and maintaining strong relationships with subcontractors, Skope identifies opportunities for savings while adhering to stringent standards. This approach has repeatedly resulted in significant cost savings for clients, as demonstrated in multiple projects.
Sustainability is also a priority for Skope.
Certified to Environmental Management System ISO 14001 standards, the company implements eco-friendly practices in all projects. From reusing materials during demolition to employing energy-efficient systems, Skope ensures their work aligns with environmental goals.
A Trusted Partner for Aged Care Providers
For aged care companies, Skope Constructions represents more than a contractor—they are a trusted partner. With a proven track record in delivering complex projects within budget and on time, Skope’s expertise and client-focused approach make them a preferred choice in the sector. “At the end of the day, it’s about delivering peace of mind for our clients and creating spaces where residents feel at home,” John concludes.
With their dedication to transparency, innovation, and quality, Skope Constructions continues to set the benchmark for excellence in aged care construction. For providers looking to partner with a team that truly understands their unique needs, Skope is the clear choice.
Building Trust, Delivering Excellence: Your Guide to Aged Care Construction
Choosing the right builder for your aged care facility is about more than just construction; it’s about creating safe, welcoming, and functional spaces where residents and staff thrive.
This magazine is your go-to resource for understanding what it takes to partner with a construction company that truly understands the unique challenges and priorities of aged care environments.
From live site management to innovative design solutions, the insights in these pages will help you make an informed choice for your next project.
Discover how industry leaders like Calvary, Uniting, and Baptist Care are partnering with trusted builders to deliver outstanding results. Packed with real-world examples, expert advice, and compelling testimonials, this publication will give you the tools and confidence to select a construction partner who prioritises quality, transparency, and the well-being of your residents.
Start your journey towards building excellence today like these Aged Care companies who have repeatedly had Skope deliver their projects!
