practical living
Disruption by design
A designer ’ s perspective on challenging contemporary aged care norms .
By Alex Hopkins
When you enter Eva Tilley Memorial home in Melbourne ’ s leafy North Balwyn , you immediately get a sense that it ’ s different to other aged care residences . That ’ s because it is .
We were tasked with rethinking and reenergising an existing offering , developing a thoughtful , inspiring narrative that contemporises aged residential living through social exchange and positive behaviours , while stimulating the senses .
Crucial to the project from the outset was the willingness of the home ’ s CEO Sharelle Rowe to disrupt the accepted social norms of ageing in Australia and her willingness to being open to new ideas .
“ I encouraged the Studio Tate team to push the boundaries and come up with something unexpected ,” says Sharelle . “ I was open to new thinking .”
It ’ s because of this bravery and eagerness that we were able to challenge the status quo and deliver a result that is a game-changer within the industry ; smart in its function and aesthetically elevated .
When designing it was important to remember that these communal spaces are still someone ’ s home , and with this in mind our approach took a very personal perspective .
Inspired to provide an elevated aesthetic mindful of both resident and staff , this meant requirements for spatial planning and zoning were priorities , as were using colour and cost-effective finishes to give an interesting and dynamic result to structure and wayfinding .
Working closely with the client was really rewarding as they were happy and open to any ideas and immediately bought into the ethos of why shouldn ’ t there be colour and texture .
Our personalised approach was underpinned by an inherent understanding of how the new multi-faceted spaces were to be used , creating zones to accommodate a comprehensive lifestyle program with multiple activities such as art and music classes being able to run concurrently without disruption .
Unexpected design details such as natural stone and impactful pops of colour instantly enliven the space . Sheer window furnishings in the salon filter light on graphic terrazzo stone , with dusty pink walls that are offset by dark blue laminate and the curve of individual arched mirrors forming an inviting space for residents to take a moment for themselves .
Equally unexpected is the ‘ deep sea ’ blue fish tank in the memory support wing that acts as an interactive installation to be enjoyed by residents with limited mobility .
Individual character in each wing is provided by colour and form , while customisable features and decorative shelving encourage and add personalisation .
Our design in high traffic areas has a key focus on adaptability and dual purpose , enabling a seamless flow for internal and external organised events . Communal spaces and a range of seating options encourage movement and social exchange .
Our design lead on services such as a hair and nail salon were created to give an everyday perspective to the project and offer a genuine sense of life prior to living in care for residents . The kiosk with its shop , bar , communal coffee facilities and internal post box foster connection , while the upbeat multi-functional zone is perfect for Friday afternoon drinks and hosted events .
Being involved with the project from the initial feasibility stage and then over a subsequent three-year period , our collaborative approach and open design process ensured a long-term working relationship built on trust .
The final outcome resulted in a functional and aesthetic enhancement of everyday life for residents and their families , creating an environment they want to be in . Importantly , the bold , brave decisions undertaken by the client have been rewarded with an outcome that ultimately has given an immeasurable lift to the residents . ■
Alex Hopkins is design director , Interior Architecture – Studio Tate .
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