Estate Living Magazine Retirement Living - Issue 40 April 2019 | Page 46

d e v e l O p m e n t
•
•
•
&
I N V E S T M E N T
Ensure direct integration of inside and outside spaces,
i.e. a small garden area to be in wide and full view from
the interior.
Each resident’s personal identity is expressed by a
‘threshold’ area immediately outside their private space
to act as:
» » a transition zone between private and public areas
» » a place for expression of self by use of personal
objects
» » a safe place of one’s own in which to sit and observe,
and meet and greet.
The main activity area should provide sufficient space
for social groups of between 10 and 12 residents, with
– optimally – a maximum of two professional skilled
dementia care staff (plus volunteers). A wide variety
of permanently available activities should be possible
within this space throughout the day.
The above are almost all based on increased visibility and access.
While this may seem to be in conflict with our Western need for
privacy, it doesn’t need to be. The designs allow for increased
visibility, but there is always the option of retreating to one’s private
space and closing the door. So, really, it’s not about privacy vs
accessibility, it’s about choice.
•
The communal space should be well ventilated, naturally
lit as far as possible, and contain facilities for interaction,
making simple meals, and making tea or coffee. It should
also have a view of an accessible garden. The garden
space should be designed for easy access and active
participation by residents – possibly with some raised
beds in which residents can grow flowers or even veggies
that can be used in the kitchen.
“Boredom is the path to the dark side. Boredom leads
to frustration. Frustration leads to anger. Anger leads to
suffering.” Apologies to Yoda and George Lucas
architectonicus.co.uk