Ambience Design Group was just awarded the 2015 Best Healthcare Winner from Soelberg’s Installation Contest.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
VILLA COLOMBO is a Long Term Care facility in Toronto, Ontario which serves as a home for the elderly who are no longer able to care for themselves. Ambience Design group was contracted to provide the re-design of the sunroom on the fifth floor.
“Revamping the existing space will respond to the basic needs of today’s elderly allowing them to experience a fresh and stimulating atmosphere at the same time, the comforts of a home-like environment.” –Josie Abate, Principal, Ambience Design Group
Minimalist in design, the Sunroom accommodates space restrictions, safety and flow of movement. As well, it encompasses functionality and therapeutic elements through the use of colours, textures, sound, visuals and natural light.
The Sunroom is a space designed to enhance the level of comfort for the residents while treating their mind, body and soul.
The ultimate goal of the project was to provide a safe and healthy multi-functional environment, which could easily be converted into a unique activity space for Alzheimer’s patients.
The space was divided for two distinct uses: lounging and activities such as arts + crafts. In the arts + crafts space, a large-scale, built-in aquarium introduces a form of audio-visual therapy.
A large custom glass window dividing the hallway and sunroom creates visual interest and allows the natural light to pour in.
We designed nature inspired graphics with trees and birds using stimulating colours to act as a form of visual therapy that can help Alzheimer’s patients.
The 3D wall supplied by Soelberg further enhances the nature theme using a wave pattern and light blue colour.
Key Points When Designing for Alzheimer’s + Dementia Patients:
- Use bright contrasting colours.
- Minimize obstacles.
- Choose non-slip materials for flooring.
- Choose contrasting colours between the floors and chairs and tables.
- Use pleasing sounds.
- Provide even lighting as much as possible; avoid pools of light and dark.
- Create purpose-specific rooms so residents always know what to expect when they enter.
For more details on how we incorporated wellness elements along with accessibility in the design of the Villa Colombo Sunroom, check out our press release.
Source: Dementia, 4th Edition By David Ames, Alistair Burns, John T. O’Brien