DESIGN


built in Sydney, showcasing how modular design could aid the creation of more of these homes, more speedily.


A FAST TURNAROUND The Modular Cottage harnesses the efficiencies and quality control of offsite construction, with benefits including a fast turnaround and minimisation of the impact of construction on a live site. And the design can be operational within four weeks of


delivery and can be quickly replicated, with a build time of just 16 weeks. Speaking to hdm ahead of the launch, HammondCare’s Liz


Fuggle said: “We find that operating these cottages results in better outcomes for residents. “And building a fully-modular unit allowed us to test to what


extent this construction method was compatible with dementia design principles. “The potential advantages include speeding up construction


time, enabling cottages to be located in more-remote areas where trades are less available, reducing dust and noise on site, reducing waste, and improving quality control.”


The Modular Cottage is designed to compensate for the


common impairments associated with dementia such as short-term memory loss, problems with sight and hearing, and reduced mobility. There are an average of eight en-suite bedrooms, increasing


to 14, in each unit. This modest size makes them easier to navigate and stops residents from feeling too overwhelmed. Furthermore, the design of each area is domestic and


familiar, with good visual access and a logical progression of space so that residents are less dependent on their memory to find their way around. Toilets in all en-suites are visible from beds and tonal contrast further helps with wayfinding.


A FAMILIAR SIGHT And the inclusion of a fully-functioning kitchen, domestic laundry, and secure garden promote independence. “There are no dead ends and each corridor or


>


12


mhdf magazine


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23