Floor plants are a constant struggle in senior living communities. They’re over-used, often shoved into every possible nook and cranny. They are difficult to keep clean and free from dust. And in memory care, they provide a whole new set of problems. I remember the first time I was told that floor plants should never …
Aromatherapy is a term that is thrown around a lot lately with the growing popularity of essential oils and all-natural remedies, but the idea of aromatherapy goes back centuries. The Egyptians used aromatic oils for religious purposes and for their antibiotic properties, and Hippocrates was known to take aromatic baths for his health. The amazing …
Textiles for senior living have come a long way since I started my interior design career. I remember coming across chairs upholstered in the first iteration of Crypton fabrics during my site visits. These ‘fabrics’ were more like printed vinyls, in all shades of rose, blue, and seafoam green. They reminded me of furniture …
Flooring is an easily overlooked, yet very important part of a living space. Of all of the materials in a building, it is probably what sees the most abuse. It also has a huge impact on a room’s ambiance and the sound levels. I wanted to talk about flooring today because I keep seeing projects …
What are the elements of a successful outdoor space, and how do you bring one to your community? Spring is here! And what better time to talk about outdoor spaces. Especially in dementia communities, having an outdoor space for residents is incredibly important. Since residents typically are living inside a secured community, they cannot come …
What is this space? Amanda: This is a gardening memory station located in a community courtyard. This community is located in the Midwest, so the bench can be brought inside when winter is near. If taken inside, typically suggest a station like this be located near windows where you can see flowers and landscaping, or …
What is this space? Amanda: A vanity station for use in an alcove or corridor near a spa or salon. What materials did you use? Amanda: We used an existing vanity and body form. We purchased jewelry and hat stands; scarves and hats of various bright colors; jewelry in varying textures, colors, and sizes. Why …
What is this space? Amanda: A ‘Bait and Tackle’ shop for men who love to fish. What materials did you use? Amanda: A sofa table with laminate top (prevents top from being scratched when items are moved around); fishing pole without hook; fishing hat and gloves; fishing lure ornaments (with rounded ‘hooks’); tackle box and …
What is this space? Amanda: Before the renovation, this space was used as a den. We turned it into a quiet space for residents to come sit and relax. The client wanted to add in a doll and some nurturing station items, but did not want the space to be set up as a nursery …
What is this space? Amanda: An office station for residents who had careers where they worked at a desk. What materials did you use? Amanda: We used an existing desk. Ideally, the desk would be darker so it contrasted the wall color more. We included colorful office supplies and books relating to different careers like doctor, …