Moving into aged care can be difficult for many reasons. It often involves downsizing and giving up independence, as well as adjusting to a new living situation and a higher level of care. It can also place a significant burden on family members or caregivers who are responsible for making decisions and providing assistance. Additionally, it's important to involve the person moving into aged care in the decision-making process as much as possible and to keep their preferences and needs in mind when making arrangements.

Last year I worked with the Marketing Department of Anglicare to decorate three display suites for their new aged care facility, Roden Cutler Lodge, in Gordon an upper north shore suburb of Sydney. The client brief was to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for residents and their families. Having three options was a great way to showcase the potential of the living spaces and help potential residents envision themselves living there.

For each of the three spaces, we created a persona for the resident who might be living there. We incorporated personal elements such as photographs, memorabilia, and items related to hobbies and interests as well as choosing colors and patterns that might appeal to them, to show how the transition into aged care can be a positive experience for potential residents.

The first example of this is the "artist room", designed to show how a resident might continue to work on their creativity and self-expression in an aged care setting. The design incorporated practical and functional elements, such as a piece of furniture for storage of art supplies, an eclectic mix of patterns and calming blue tones in the decor and an easel placed in the window, also highlighting the natural light in the space.

These elements can help to create a sense of familiarity and comfort, and can also serve as conversation starters and help residents feel more connected to their new living environment. Additionally, incorporating these elements can also provide cues for staff and caregivers to better understand the residents' interests and preferences, which can help to personalize care and improve quality of life.

Signature Scent: Hamilton Island by The Raconteur; made with lemon myrtle, native ginger, seagrass, wild herbs, eucalypt, vetiver.

Client: Anglicare
Site: Roden Cutler Lodge, Gordon
Architect: Allen Jack + Cottier

To view the other display suites, go here: Anglicare Gordon | Suite 2 and here: Anglicare Gordon | Suite 3