DESIGN


Taking design


inspiration from Down Under


Australia is becoming a major player in improving the design of dementia care buildings worldwide. Here, we explore two new projects that UK specialists could learn from


D


ementia design has come under the spotlight around the world in the past decade as the number of elderly people and those with the condition increases rapidly.


Parts of Europe, including the UK, the Netherlands, and


Scandinavia are leading the way in terms of helping to create an evidence base for designers and a new generation of dementia-friendly developments. But, on the other side of the world, Australian academics


and clinical experts are unveiling a network of new facilities that are changing the way we look at dementia design the world over.


And, in recent months, two new units have been launched


that will act as a blueprint for architecture and the integration of technology moving forward. HammondCare is well known for its dementia care facilities


since building its first specialist unit, The Meadows, in 1995. This development marked a step change as it brought


people together in groups of ‘cottages’ which form supportive environments that promote independence. The company now has 41 of these units across seven sites, with 28 more in the pipeline. And, now, in an industry first; a new respite cottage is being


mhdf magazine > 11


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