The Design Process

In collaboration with Edenbridge Health, we designed for the sensitive needs of the elderly, particularly for those with cognitive impairments. Touchpoints down to the smallest details were incorporated in every room:

• The Cherry Blossom PACE Center has a warm, settled, home away from home feeling, creating a sense of calm and comfort for the community members.
• An abundance of single-stall restrooms were installed throughout the center for ease of accessibility. Within each restroom, toilets were positioned to maximize privacy.
• Amenities such as warm towel holders in the shower stalls add a comforting touch.
• The high contrast of select finishes against the fixtures makes them more recognizable. For example, in the restrooms and showers, the grab bars near the toilet and towel bars are black, an intentionally stark contrast to the softer wall and tile colors to further ease the burden of the experience of the elderly community it serves.
• The Center was finished in simple tones and patterns to avoid confusion and disorientation, and contrast was critical on different surface plains for distinction.
• Instead of “accent walls” in commercial spaces, many of the rooms are finished with accent colors on all walls within a room to create an inviting and familiar space.