Huge Apartment, Moonee Ponds, Melbourne ( Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung country ) - Accessibility Review
Me, enjoying amazing Queen’s Park, after a two block extremely accessible roll from this very accessible apartment.
Most of my accessibility reviews are typically on coastal or regional holiday-type properties. So I was thrilled to have the rare chance to review* an accessible 2nd-floor apartment located in a lovely Melbourne’s inner suburb. The location – 7 km from the CBD and 13 km from Tullamarine (Melbourne) domestic and international airport - is exciting enough. That this apartment is huge with three extra bedrooms and a huge accessible bedroom with ensuite, has a real kitchen and a view is a super welcome option for so many scenarios where people need or want to be close to urban life.
WEBSITE | BOOKING:
WHAT WORKED:
Booking availability: This property is listed with Accessible Accommodation. As such, both online booking and personalised bookings are available.
Large photo gallery
Loads of accessible property information are provided through 50+ accessible FAQs and descriptions.
There is always someone to talk to.
Surrounding area information.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK :
Nothing to fault. From my knowledge and experience, Accessible Accommodation is a unique leader in understanding what types of respite, rehab and holiday accommodation people with disabilities need. But more importantly what information is required for prospective guests to feel confident in their choice of accommodation. They are the benchmark and I think their website and booking information works beautifully.
ACCESS TO VENUE | PARKING:
Ample basement parking is available. However, the access to the foyer is either a set of internal stairs or a more accessible route from the external car parking entrance onto a short strip of cobblestone paving, and then a smooth concrete path. Pascoe Vale Road facing the entry to the apartment is generally available for parking .
WHAT’S INSIDE:
WHAT WORKED:
Huge and private accessible zone including the bedroom, ensuite and kitchenette.
Heaps of space in the room for hoist transfers and charging devices
A hoist ( BYO sling of course ), and 2 types of shower commode chairs are available upon request.
King-size bed made with 2 x fully height and position adjustable king single beds with optional side rails. This is the dream for me and sadly rare to find.
Lift access from the foyer – large enough for a powerchair and attendant
Fully opening sliding doors from the kitchen/living/entertaining area to the outside make for inclusive outdoor-indoor gatherings.
Full kitchen facilities in the main area
Plenty of power points and space, particularly in the main accessible room, for charging appliances and equipment.
Roll-under kitchenette in the main accessible room
A family apartment but can be closed off from the accessible bedroom en-suite.
Extra - three bedrooms, one bathroom and one toilet .
Choice of heights for under-bench access to a wash basin in the accessible bedroom/ ensuite.
Choice of heights for roll-under dining in the kitchen/dining area with the choice of dining table and island bench.
Wide main hallway
WHAT MIGHT NOT WORK FOR EVERYONE :
The threshold ramp on the outside of the balcony entrance doesn’t meet flush with the door tracks by about 20mm. I have attached a video showing this.
Slightly narrow ensuite, however, there is room for a shower commode (as pictured) and one attendant.
Basement car park access to the building is via short cobbled laneway ( I did it reasonably comfortably in my power chair)
SUMMARY
This gorgeous, modern apartment is the closest I've seen to full accessibility for all physical needs while retaining the comfort and beauty that I would expect from an inner-city stay.
I was really delighted in the inclusive 2 block roll along Pascoe Vale Rd to the historic and breathtaking Queens Park. Wide smooth paths, exquisitely manicured and roll-able expanses of lawn, ducks, swans, playgrounds shaded by grand old trees, a café and an Exeloo confirmed to me that Moonee Ponds is a great place to visit.
IMPORTANT FOOTNOTE:
I look at the ways in which businesses present an overall inclusive experience for their patrons. While I focus on mobility access, I hope to get ideas from you and others to add observations relating to other disabilities. I take a comprehensive look at everything from initial website experience to staff attitudes. Finally and importantly, I advise you to research to suit your individual needs but I hope this is a good start.
*Although I was paid by Accessible Accommodation for this opportunity I have been honest in my comments and feedback. Please reach out with any questions.
Happy accessible living and playing !
