FUNCTIONAL INTERIORS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS 4(2+2)

Lesson 31 : Design Criteria for Nursing Homes

Aesthetics

Aesthetics is closely related to creating a therapeutic homelike environment. It is also a major factor in a nursing home's public image and is thus an important marketing tool for both residents' families and staff. Aesthetic considerations include:

1. Increased use of natural light, natural materials, and textures
2. Use of artwork
3. Attention to proportions, color, scale, and detail
4. Bright, open, generously scaled public and congregate spaces
5. Homelike and intimate scale in resident rooms and offices
6. Appropriate residential exterior appearance, not hospital-like
7. Exterior compatibility with surroundings