FURNITURE & INTERIORS BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN
Biophilic principles apply inside, as well as out. Natural light, materials, textures and colours can be immensely therapeutic and even viewing nature from indoors can have the same beneficial effects on health and communication.
“Access to the outdoors is an important aspect of caring for
people with dementia, providing fresh air, smells, birdsong,
colours and natural light to stimulate the senses.”
At the Alysia Care Home in Rutland, we focused on bringing year-round natural light into internal residential spaces, from bedrooms to corridors. Artificial patterns and lighting contrasts can confuse people experiencing sight loss and dementia, so we work on carefully balancing light and colours throughout.
Orientation and feelings of wellness can be aided by a view of a building, landscape or garden. Residents at the Alysia Care Home enjoy grand views of the Elizabethan manor, Burghley House, through large windows in the central communal building and, on the first floor, a glass roof terrace offers a place to enjoy the River Welland and surrounding countryside.
FROM CARE HOMES TO HOMES THAT CARE
The principles of biophilic design don’t stop with the architecture. Installation of temporary incubators into communal areas so that residents can watch chicks hatch provides an upliſting experience of new life and proves to be a boost to feelings of wellness.
And it is not just the residents that feel the effect. Embracing nature through biophilic design also impacts the mindset of staff and the quality of care.
Designing homes that care recognises the importance of a connection to nature and natural light, and it is critical that care home design evolves to recognise the benefits of a biophilic approach.
www.hssparchitects.co.uk
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