FUNCTIONAL INTERIORS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS 4(2+2)

Lesson 26 : Planning and Directive Principles for Alternate Functional Interiors

Planning and Design Directives / Principles

One of the basic components of the planning is a list of planning and design principles to relate the facility to its occupants. The following are the criteria at

1. The operational and physical characteristics of the housing environment should encourage independence related to self-esteem and well being.
2. The physical design and services should maximize the options open to the individual in daily living.
3. The design should permit and encourage individuals to project their personalities on to the spaces by changing them to suit themselves
4. The services and physical spaces should permit and encourage social interaction among residents and community and encourage the continuation of previous roles and life styles.
5. Institutional look should be minimized
6. Reasonable amount of security should be permitted
7. Information of referral services should be made available
8. The building design should be planned to accommodate changes in the resident population
9. Meal services should be provided but be voluntary to the extent possible
10. The design, layout and architectural details of furnishings and equipment should be planned to reduce hazards and induce a feeling of competence on behalf of residents
11. The physical surroundings should enhance the residents’ orientation and increase their ability to negotiate their environment. Visual cues through the use of colours, decorative planting etc., can be provided.
12. Activity spaces should have individual identities but be conceived and inter related as a series of interacting spaces
13. The design of outdoor spaces should be given as much consideration as indoor spaces
14. Special consideration should be given to the design of heating, ventilation for the whole unit.