Designing for Dementia
Designing spaces for individuals living with dementia requires an acute understanding of their unique needs, particularly as they relate to their wellbeing. The National Aged Care Design Principles and Guidelines emphasise the need for a stronger alignment between models of care and thoughtful, purpose-driven design in dementia care environments.
Interior designers, acoustic engineers, and dementia facility owners must consider how the built environment can positively impact the lives of those with cognitive decline.
Considered design and well-chosen materials are critical in supporting dementia patients.
Fit-for-purpose fabrics that are durable, easy to clean, and soothing to the senses play a key role in creating a comforting atmosphere. Patterns should be subtle to avoid confusion or agitation, and textures should offer comfort without overwhelming the senses. Well-chosen upholstery and curtain fabric can help create a domestic and familiar appearance, balanced with the need for tonal contrast.
Noise can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of dementia patients, often contributing to agitation, confusion, or even fear. Thoughtful soundproofing and acoustic panels can help control auditory stimuli, making environments quieter, more peaceful, and conducive to relaxation. Acoustically treated spaces can also help individuals concentrate better, engage more fully in social activities, and rest more comfortably.
Wall coverings must balance aesthetics with functionality. Neutral tones, nature-inspired designs, and tactile-friendly materials can help to reduce anxiety, encourage interaction, and support orientation. Wall coverings with clear patterns and gentle colour transitions can aid wayfinding, reduce confusion, and help dementia patients feel more secure in their surroundings.
By carefully selecting fabrics, acoustic solutions, and wall coverings that are fit for purpose, designers and facility owners can create environments that promote wellbeing, comfort, and dignity for individuals living with dementia. Aligning design choices with models of care ensures that every aspect of a space contributes to a better quality of life for residents.
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 … continue reading
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HammondCare’s newest dementia village design, at Daw Park in Adelaide, sets a new standard in home-like design that helps improve quality of life for people living with dementia. HammondCare Daw Park is a purpose-built village for people requiring specialised dementia care. Modelled on a regular family household, Daw Park’s small cottages are uniquely designed to … continue reading
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For aged care design, Order & Grace’s ethos is primarily to create a ‘home.’ It is fit-for-purpose but with a real sense of warmth to welcome residents. Fairlea Aged Care at Rosehill was completed in April 2021 and Order & Grace focussed on several design elements: Colour and texture A carefully curated selection of furnishings … continue reading
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Located close to the centre of Melbourne, Uniting Agewell Preston is a new, state-of-the-art aged care facility providing “an environment of choice, empowerment and wellness” for its 104 residents. Comfortable and spacious this new build is stylish and practical, with fit-for-purpose furniture handcrafted by Crown Furniture throughout. Materialised Products Key for practicality in aged care … continue reading
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The House of Saint Hilarion in Seaton was one of the first projects to feature our Jimmy Pike collection. Upholstery fabric, which also included our Premium Designer Lynne Tanner, was selected by the aged care facility with design assistance by Crown Furniture. The Brief. The decade-old Italian style aged care facility required a contemporary update … continue reading
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The Brief. This sophisticated aged care facility, home to 100 residents as well as a dementia unit for 16, required warm textures and organic shapes to create a sense of comfort and optimism. With in-house design expertise, Crown Furniture selected a neutral colour palette, with layers of bold floral pops of colour to create a … continue reading
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The Brief. This project is in Bentley, WA and the Architects were CCN WA, along with assistance from Defiddes Design regarding dementia-specific needs for their clients. Each floor utilises colour for ‘way finding’ which helps not only the residents but also family members with direction via the colour coding. These beautiful seating booths are located at the … continue reading
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