Furniture Options selected colourful wayfinding textiles for the upholstery of their Fenebel furniture at the new Retirees Salter Point aged care facility in WA.
Embracing a New Orleans architectural style characterised by hanging baskets and arches, the facility spans two levels and offers 120 beds across 112 rooms, including 8 double rooms for couples. “We provide a comprehensive range of care services, including round-the-clock nursing care, respite, permanent, bariatric, dementia, and palliative care, complemented by a team of allied health professionals,” says Retirees WA.
The Brief
Enhancing both comfort and community spirit, while incorporating thoughtful wayfinding solutions for residents, the Furniture Options team selected European furniture specifically for its healthcare-adapted designs that meet the needs of such facilities.
“To further support wayfinding, we chose fabrics from Materialised, a leader in aged care design furnishing”, explain the Furniture Options team. “Their commercial-grade, durable textiles include printable base cloths, with strategically placed colours and patterns that guide residents through different areas of the facility.”
Colourful Wayfinding Textiles
Colourful textiles play a critical role in supporting wayfinding in aged care facilities, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits.
As residents navigate these environments, clear visual cues are essential for promoting independence and reducing confusion, particularly for those with cognitive impairments such as dementia. By incorporating vibrant textiles with distinct colours and patterns, Furniture Options were able to create intuitive pathways that subtly guide residents through different areas, enhancing their sense of autonomy.
In addition to serving as visual markers, colourful textiles help create distinct zones within the facility, making it easier for residents to identify specific spaces, such as dining rooms, lounges, or activity areas. This differentiation reduces disorientation and encourages movement within the facility, allowing residents to explore their environment with greater confidence.
Textiles with high contrast between floors, walls, and furniture can also help individuals with limited vision perceive their surroundings more easily, further enhancing navigation.
Beyond their functional value, colourful textiles contribute to a warm and welcoming atmosphere in aged care settings. Vibrant patterns and hues bring life to communal areas, fostering a sense of energy and positivity, which is vital for residents’ wellbeing.
Materialised Products
A selection of prints from our Premium and Hot Off The Press ranges were selected on a variety of base substrates, as well as faux leather, Cryptons and curtain fabric.
The Result
When thoughtfully integrated, textiles not only beautify spaces but also play a significant role in creating an environment that supports both physical and emotional health, while enhancing the overall wayfinding experience.
“At Furniture Options, we focus on creating environments that prioritise comfort, companionship, and community, with an emphasis on wayfinding to ensure ease of movement. Our partnership with Retirees Salter Point reflects our dedication to enhancing retirees’ quality of life, helping every resident feel at home.”
The Team & Credits
Furniture & Interior Design: Furniture Options
Materialised Team: WA
About the Author: Catherine McGowan
