Colour in Contemporary Aged Care Facilities
The Importance of Understanding Colour Consideration and Usage in Accordance with AgeAffiliated Visual and Psychological Deficiencies in order to Promote Self-Healing and WellBeing
Jasmin Loke-Jeffery
UNSW Built Environment Bachelor of Interior Architecture Dissertation 2019 INTA2411 
THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES Built Environment
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INTA2411 Dissertation, 2019
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Contents
Abstract
4
Acknowledgements
5
List of Illustrations
6
Introduction
8
Chapter One: Understanding Colour and its Perception
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Chapter Two: Colour as Indicators in Aged Care Facilities
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Chapter Three: Case Study Examples of Colour Indication Consideration in
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Contemporary Aged Care Facilities
Conclusion
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References
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3
Abstract
Colour has long been used as an element in spatial design, creating not only aesthetically designed spaces but environments that generate psychological, physiological, and social reactions from its users.
Furthermore, new focuses on well-being through non-invasive, holistic and natural therapy approaches within healthcare environments have given new light to colour perception and application and the way it can be used within a space in accordance with an understanding of the patients’ needs. However, the use of colour is something that must be carefully considered, particularly in aged care facilities where patients’ psychological and physical visual perception can be affected due to age-affiliated deficiencies which may impact the way they associate and use colour within the space.
This dissertation seeks to explore and develop the understanding of colour consideration and usage in contemporary aged care facilities and the beneficial qualities it provides for patients with age-affiliated visual and psychological deficiencies in order to promote physical and mental wellbeing and self-healing.
The analysis will be undertaken through a comparison of scholarly sources along with three contemporary case study examples which will address the three main focuses of colour as movement, behavioural and social indicators in aged care facilities. Through analysis, this dissertation aims to exhibit that colour selection and usage is an important element to consider in the spatial design of contemporary aged care facilities in order to promote well-being for patients affected by aged related deficiencies. 
4
Acknowledgements
I would like to acknowledge and thank my supervisor Dr. Alanya Drummond for her advice, feedback and support throughout the process of writing this dissertation.
To my mother Mei, thank you for always believing in me.
And to Paris and Christina for their support and dedication.
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List of Illustrations
Figure
1.1.
Page
Interior Colour Application, The Home for Dependent Elderly People and
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Nursing Home, Orbec, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by David Romero-Uzeda 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulon-architecte.fr/en/projet/577/orbec>
1.2.
Interior Colour Application, ‘André Malraux’ Group of Schools, Montpellier,
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France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulon-architecte.fr/en/projet/ 535/montpellier>
2.1.
Colour as a Way-finding Device, Carros Parking Lot & Urban Planning,
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Carros, France, N+B Architects, Photographed by Paul Kozlowski, accessed 14 November 2019, <https://www.archdaily.com/58437/carrosparking-lot-urban-planning-nb-architectes>
2.2.
Colour as a Social Indicator, Mixed-use building, Strasbourg, France,
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Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons, David Romero-Uzeda 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulonarchitecte.fr/projet/639/strasbourg>
2.3.
Colour as a Private Indicator, Mixed-use building, Strasbourg, France,
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Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons, David Romero-Uzeda 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulonarchitecte.fr/projet/639/strasbourg>
2.4.
Colour as a Private Indicator, Mixed-use building, Strasbourg, France,
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Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons, David Romero-Uzeda 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulonarchitecte.fr/projet/639/strasbourg>
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3.1.
Colour as a Movement Indicator, The Santa Rita Geriatric Centre, Menorca,
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Spain, Manuel Ocaña, Photographed by Miguel de Guzmán 2009, accessed 14 November 2019, <https://www.archdaily.com/24725/santa-ritageriatric-center-manuel-ocana>
3.2.
Colour as a Movement Indicator, The Santa Rita Geriatric Centre, Menorca,
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Spain, Manuel Ocaña, Photographed by Miguel de Guzmán 2009, accessed 14 November 2019, <https://www.archdaily.com/24725/santa-ritageriatric-center-manuel-ocana>
3.3.
Colour as a Behaviour Indicator, Home for the Seriously Disabled,
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Mattaincourt, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons 2010, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulonarchitecte.fr/projet/564/mattaincourt>
3.4.
Colour as a Behaviour Indicator, Home for the Seriously Disabled,
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Mattaincourt, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons 2010, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulonarchitecte.fr/projet/564/mattaincourt>
3.5.
Structure and Surrounding Content, Torre Julia, Barcelona, Spain, Ricard
25
Galiana, Sergi Pons and Pau Vidal, Photographed by Adrià Goula 2012, accessed 14 November 2019, <https://www.dezeen.com/2012/10/18/torrejulia-housing-by-pau-vidal-sergi-pons-and-ricard-galiana/>
3.6.
Colour as a Social Indicator in Double Height Spaces, Torre Julia,
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Barcelona, Spain, Ricard Galiana, Sergi Pons and Pau Vidal, Photographed by Adrià Goula 2012, accessed 14 November 2019, <https:// www.dezeen.com/2012/10/18/torre-julia-housing-by-pau-vidal-sergi-ponsand-ricard-galiana/>
3.7.
Front Elevation, Torre Julia, Barcelona, Spain, Ricard Galiana, Sergi Pons
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and Pau Vidal, Photographed by Adrià Goula 2012, accessed 14 November 2019, <https://www.dezeen.com/2012/10/18/torre-julia-housing-by-pauvidal-sergi-pons-and-ricard-galiana/>
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Introduction
The element of colour has long been an important factor in design and interior architecture. The history of what colour is and how it has been used within spatial environments has evolved throughout history with our understanding on how and why to use it deepening. The way in which colour is perceived and experienced is one that will differ from individual to individual. However, this difference is often overlooked to which a certain individual may be restricted by visual or psychological deficiencies ultimately affecting how they experience colour. This dissertation explores the ways in which colour is perceived both physically and mentally within the built environment, using supporting scholarly sources and case study examples. It examines and develops the usage of colour and the consideration for its usage in contemporary aged care facilities. Furthermore, it highlights the associated age-related visual and psychological deficiencies which may influence the way one experiences and navigates colour in order to promote physical and mental well-being and self-healing.
The first chapter of this dissertation, Understanding Colour and its Perception, will seek to address our understanding of colour through an understanding of historical and scholarly sources. By examining the work of Frank H. Mahnke (1996), Kurt Nassau (1997), H. D. Murray (1952), Cynthia A. Leibrock (2000), Sara O. Marberry and Laurie Zagon (1995), and Eckhard Feddersen and Insa LĂźdtke (2009), this chapter will explore the understanding of colour and how it is perceived. It will further investigate how our bodies perceive colour through hue, harmony, saturation and contrast as well as how colour is perceived physically and visually through the built environment. Further discussion will highlight how colour perception can be affected through the ageing process by psychological and visual deficiencies which include yellow tinting to the lens, colour blindness and dementia, suggesting considerations which must be undertaken when selecting colour for an aged care environment.
The second chapter of this dissertation, Colour as Indicators in Aged Care Facilities, will identify the primary uses of colour as indicators within the contemporary aged care environment. The three areas of focus consist of colour as a movement indicator, behavioural indicator and social indicator. This chapter will specify the movement patterns of aged care residents, highlighting the need for colour to be used as a movement indicator in order to assist with navigation and way-finding. By outlining the behavioural patterns experienced in aged care facilities, an understanding on how colour indicators assists in creating a perception of a comfortable and safe space is generated (Mahnke 1996: 146). Furthermore, colour can be used as an indicator to define private and social spaces, allowing for designated socialisation, an important activity for elderly residents which allows a sense of belonging that attributes to their physical and mental well-being (Mozzer 2014). 8
The final and third chapter of this dissertation, Case Study Examples of Colour Indication Consideration in Contemporary Aged Care Facilities, will continue on with the ideas presented in the previous chapter and analyse their presence within the built environment through three case study examples which will individually focus on a seperate idea of colour as an indicator. The analysis will comprise of the Santa Rita Geriatric Centre in Menorca, Spain designed by Manuel OcaĂąa; the Nursing Home for the Seriously Disabled in Mattaincourt, France designed by Dominique Coulon and Associates; and finally the Torre Julia apartments in Barcelona, Spain designed by architects Ricard Galiana, Sergi Pons and Pau Vidal. Through the investigation of these three different aged care facilities, this chapter aims to exhibit how colour works successfully or unsuccessfully within a contemporary aged care environment, catering to the specified needs of patients with age-affiliated visual and psychological deficiencies.
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Chapter One: Understanding Colour and its Perception
How individuals perceive and understand colour depends greatly on how one experiences colour through visual and physical existence. The way in which the human eye perceives colour, both artificial and natural, can be affected through the inevitable process of ageing and the age-related deficiencies which occur. With a rapidly ageing population, these deficiencies can greatly affect how one experiences their environment. Thus, special consideration must be undertaken into the choice of colours used within spatial design in order to create a comfortable and safe environment that promotes well-being and self-healing for our elderly.
What is colour? It is universally understood that colour is a visual perception that exists only in our brain, through a reflection of light. Sir Isaac Newton first observed, that objects do not possess physical colour, rather they reflect different wavelengths of light which stimulate certain parts of the human brain (Mahnke 1996: 95). Each wavelength is intercepted at different lengths, creating various colours. Colour can be perceived and experienced both objectively and subjectively; through physical existence and individual perception. The way colour is perceived can be further influenced by an individuals range of visual perception, which as later discussed can be additionally affected by the process of ageing. Chemist and mineralogist Kurt Nassau synthesises our understanding of colour as ‘three subtly different aspects of reality’. Firstly colour refers to the visual property of an object, for example ‘green grass’. Secondly, colour refers to the properties of light rays, as in ‘grass efficiently reflects green light… while absorbing light of other colours more or less completely’. Finally, colour defines a group of sensations as a result of the human eye’s perception and the brain’s interpretation of light reflecting upon an object to create a certain colour (Nassau 1997). Our understanding of the concept of colour can be approached from different perspectives and disciplines, such as art, the science of physics, colour theory and psychology (Mahnke 1996: 6). The way colour is experienced and understood in art is different from how it would be approached in colour theory, with specific colour associations and their theoretic meaning differing from how primary, secondary, warm and cool colours are associated and understood through the colour wheel. Nevertheless, there are similarities between these various disciplines, with a general understanding on how colour and its properties (saturation, hue, contrast) can influence an individual and their perception of a space or object (Mahnke 1996: 84). Colour theory and psychology has long been used to describe the relationship colour and the human mind have, with advances and explorations into how colour can be used to benefit an individual. This led to developments in chromotherapy and health care, generated by the work conducted by Edwin D.
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Babbit. However, this dissertation will focus on how colour is perceived through the emotional and physical experience generated from our understanding of colour theory and physiology.
How do our bodies perceive colour? Through our understanding of colour being a refection of light, we can denote that the way in which an individual experiences colour depends of the intensity of light, the way it is reflected from a surface, and the colour surrounding the objects (Mahnke 1996: 95). When considering colour in the built environment, our bodies can perceive it physically through various means such as texture, materiality, and light. The way we perceive colour can be affected by the various properties which surround colour. The four elements which will be discussed in this chapter are hue, harmony, saturation and contrast.
A hue is a property of colour which refers to the difference in shade between colours, for example the hue of green is different to the hue of blue or yellow. Hues are distinguished by the different amounts of light at various wavelengths that objects absorb (Mahnke 1996: 84).
Colour harmonies are an important part of colour theory. Colour, similar to music, has ‘harmonies and discords deduced from the attributes of hue, luminosity and saturation’ (Murray 1952: 293). The two factors of interest and choice are incorporated into an individuals preference for certain colours as opposed to others as well as a preference for certain colour combination (colour harmony) and an aversion to certain other colour combinations (colour discord) (Murray 1952: 294). The way colour is used through harmonic and non-harmonic, otherwise known as related and contrasting, colour systems can influence the way an individual perceives those colours (Mahnke 1996: 88). Related colour harmonies can be divided into monochromatic and analogous, whereas contrasting colour harmonies combine hues that are separated on the colour wheel. Contrasting colour harmonies include complementary, analogous complementary, split-complementary harmony and double complementary schemes (Mahnke 1996: 89). According to Frank Mahnke, monochromatic harmonies refer to the use of one hue that varies in saturation and value whilst analogous harmonies use no more than three hues adjacent to each other on the colour wheel. Complementary colour schemes refer to the use of hues directly opposite one another of the colour wheel, allowing for the introduction of ‘contrasting colours’. Analogous-complementary refers to ‘the modification of the complementary scheme’, by selecting two hues located next to each other and ‘combining them with a complementary of one of the two’. Split-complementary refers to one hue and the ‘two tones adjoining its complementary hue’, whereas double-complementary refers to the use of ‘two closely related hues and their complements’. (Mahnke 1996: 89).
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It is widely suggested that people react favourably to environments that use harmonious systems (Mahnke 1996: 88). Colours that are non-harmonic can influence the way an individual experience’s the space, often at times creating an environment that is unpleasant or unbalanced. When considering the use of colour within a healthcare environment it is important to note that ‘a monochromatic colour scheme… may be perceived as institutional… it can become monotonous and boring when viewed for an extended period, contributing to sensory deprivation, which leads to disorganisation of brain function, deterioration of intelligence and an inability to concentrate’ (Leibrock 2000: 82). Saturation refers to the colour attribute that like hue distinguishes one colour from another. Saturation can also be ‘referred to as strength, intensity or chroma’, effectively designating ‘the purity of a given colour, the quality that distinguishes it from a greyed or weaker colour’ (Mahnke 1996: 85). An example of saturation within the built environment is exhibited in Figure 1.1 and 1.2, demonstrating how a contrast in saturation can alter an environment and the atmosphere it creates. It is generally suggested that the use of highly saturated bright colours within health care environments should be used as accents and visual contrast elements such as grab rails, door frames and levers. This allows for easier recognition, rather than less saturated colours which may blend into the background (Leibrock 2000: 82).
Figure 1.1 Interior Colour Application, The Home for Dependent Elderly People and Nursing Home, Orbec, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by David Romero-Uzeda 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulon-architecte.fr/en/projet/577/ orbec>
Figure 1.2 Interior Colour Application, ‘André Malraux’ Group of Schools, Montpellier, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulon-architecte.fr/en/projet/535/ montpellier>
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As noted by Mahnke, ‘the principles or effects of colour contrasts determine how a colour is perceived, how a colour scheme is developed, and how objects are highlighted or partially concealed’. When considering the principles of contrast, it must be understood that contrast can be applied to other colour principles also, for example hue contrast or saturation contrast (Mahnke 1996: 85). Similar to harmonies, colour contrasts may be helpful or harmful to the perception of an environment, thus careful consideration must be undertaken when selecting colour for a design. Colour contrasts should be selected and used within the built environment in order to assist in clarifying and defining volumes, forms, edge changes and planes which is particularly important in aged care environments (Spivack 1984).
When considering how our bodies perceive colour through the built environment it is primarily through visual and physical experience, however colour is not limited to artificial colour and built objects. The environment and natural landscape in which the building is situated can provide individuals with natural colour. Natural colour can refer to the plant life, natural light, and organic elements of the landscape such as stones, bodies of water and the sky. In the design of the built environment, it has been widely expressed that ‘equal attention must be devoted to the psychological, physiological, visual, aesthetic and technical aspects of both colour and light (Mahnke 1996: 2). However consideration must also be given to the environment in which a structure is built, the colour and light that is generated from those surroundings and how they will interact with the space. It must also be understood that ‘colours exits in… places that have height, length, width, light and shadow’ and thus, ‘each of these factors affects a colour value and intensity’, ultimately influencing how one can perceive a certain colour (Bush-Brown, Davis 1992: 179).
How does our perception of colour change as we age? Ageing is an inevitable process that all individuals will face throughout their lifetime. The impacts of ageing can affect both an individuals perception of colour both psychologically and physically, affecting the way they move through and interpret their surroundings. A deficiency in colour vision does occur with ageing, with most major eye diseases being age-related. The most common agerelated vision deficiencies are the yellow tinting of the lens and colour blindness, which both affect how an individual physically perceives and experiences colour. Furthermore, our perception of colour can also be influenced by psychological factors such as dementia.
Visual perception is reduced through the yellowing of the lens, which sees the yellowing and thickening of the lens, effectively slicing the shorter wavelengths of colour (blues, greens and violets) from reaching the optic nerve (Berg, Bergman, Steen, Wijk 2002). This can affect up to 13
85% of older people, thus generating a greater need for understanding the way in which colour should be used to effectively create a safe and comfortable environment in contemporary aged cared facilities (Leibrock 2000: 81). The yellowing of the lens reduces an individuals perception of cream colours and yellow tones which range from highly saturated bright colours to pastel hues. Hues of similar saturation and value that are used together can become blurred, thus making it difficult to interpret environmental information such as depth and contrast of objects (Marberry, Zagon 1995). The yellowing of the lens can further impact an individuals perception of ‘blue, bluegreen or violet colour schemes’, particularly during natural daylight or fluorescent lighting, ultimately causing the hues to appear grey. However, the use of tungsten lighting or standard lightbulbs can assist blue tones to be easily distinguished, particularly at night (Leibrock 2000: 82). As previously mentioned this inability to perceive certain tones such as blue or yellow can create substantial risks for aged care patients, for example the placement of a blue chair on blue carpet makes it impossible to see the edge, thus contributing to the risk of a fall (Leibrock 2000: 81). Unlike individuals who suffer from colour blindness however yellowing tinting of the ‘lens has little effect on red tones’ (Leibrock 2000: 82). It is recommended that when designing an environment that caters to patients with visual perception deficiencies as a result of yellow tinting of the lens, colour schemes which involve not overly saturated reds and greens should be used (Leibrock 2000: 82).
Colour blindness is a genetically inherited condition, which mainly affects men. The gene liked to colour vision is the X chromosome; men only have one X chromosome whereas women have two, thus both X chromosomes would have to carry the defect to result in lack of colour vision (Mahnke 1996: 96). Although, individuals maybe be born colourblind, the process of ageing can lead to acquired colour blindness. However acquired colour blindness can also be generated as a result of diseases that damaged the optic nerve or retina of the eye. People with colour blindness can experience difficulty distinguishing between the hues of red and green (Leibrock 2000: 82). When designing spaces suitable for individuals who suffer from colour blindness, Leibrock suggests using colour combinations such as blue and red, brown and blue and blue and orange. However caution should be demonstrated when using blue, as colour blind individuals have trouble discerning blue light, similar to red and green hues (Leibrock 2000: 82).
Dementia is a psychological illness which affects an individuals memory and development process. It affects one in four people over the age of 65 (Feddersen, Lüdtke 2009: 30). The illness is developed in the brain, with protein deposits called ‘plaques’ disrupting ‘the transmission of information between the nerve cells, causing them to successively die’ (Feddersen et al. 2009: 30). The illness generally progresses through several stages and eventually leads to helplessness and hospitalisation. People with dementia first begin to suffer memory loss, then become disorientated 14
and unable to recognise people, places or objects. In later stages the illness can lead to a loss of identity and social isolation. Sufferers are aware of the developing symptoms of dementia from an early stage, particularly as their interactions with their environment change (Feddersen et al. 2009: 30). The cognitive limitations that are brought on as a result of dementia can ‘lead to errors in one’s memory of place and a reduced ability to spontaneously adapt to new spaces and unknown situations’ (Feddersen et al. 2009: 30). The impact of dementia on an individuals perception of colour is closely linked to their memories. It is important to consider the colours that may have been associated with an individuals past, using reflective colour schemes to assist individuals ‘to feel comfortable and settled within a space, as well as helping them to recall past events’ (Mahnke 1996: 164). Brawley (1997) notes that when designing for people with dementia the following principles should be adhered to. Differences between foreground and background colours should be exaggerated for easier recognition and colours of similar lightness should be avoided. Dark hues such as blue, violet, purple, and red should be used with lighter hues of blue-green, green, yellow, and orange. This allows for effective contrast for people with ‘partial sight and/or colour deficiency’. Hues from adjacent sides of the colour wheel should be avoided, colours should contrast to allow for easier recognition of colour for individuals with colour deficiencies (Brawley 1997).
How colour is perceived develops as a result of ageing, allows us to generate an understanding of visual and psychological conditions which may alter an individuals experience of colour and space. By considering the physical and mental afflictions of yellow tinting of the lens, colour blindness and dementia, architects and designers can create an environment that caters to the needs of these ageing individuals in order to produce a space that is comforting and safe (Mahnke 1996: 146). It is important to consider colours that allow for universal usage, regarding the different deficiencies and the intersecting properties they may have towards certain colours.
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Chapter Two: Colour as Indicators in Aged Care Facilities
The use of colour in health care facilities, particularly aged care facilities, is a significant factor within the design process which must be considered appropriately for the general user and in particular for those with degenerative colour perception. This chapter will cover three primary areas of colour indication within an aged care environment, detailing the need for their consideration and the ways in which they benefit a patient or users well-being and aid in the healing process. It is widely discussed that colour and light can be used to compensate for the visual changes, such as ‘reduced adaption, reduced retinal illuminance, reduced contrast and saturation discernment, and impaired colour vision associated with ageing, with studies suggesting that ‘appropriate colour selections and contrasts levels assisting in improving the way the elderly… visualise and understand the built environment’ (Hegde 2007: 22). When thinking about colour in the built environment, particularly health care environments, the idea of colour psychology is widely discussed as a way which benefits the users through colour selection and its assumed associations. However, as voiced by Mahnke, ‘health care facilities can aid the healing process by establishing an environment that contributes to the psychological and physiological well-being of the patient’ (Mahnke 1996: 146). Within these environments, each individual complex space, that according to Mahnke demand ‘a supportive visual milieu’ of their own, must be individually considered in terms of functionality, aesthetic and design, in order to create a space that aids wellbeing whilst preserving the unity and structure of the facility (Mahnke 1996: 147). The three main areas of focus indicators which this chapter will discuss as drawn from the analysis of the first chapter on colour perception, are colour as a movement indicator, behavioural indicator and a social indicator. By breaking down these three separate indication aspects within the healthcare environment, we can aim to establish the importance of colour in correlation with each indicator.
Colour as a movement indicator A suggested usage for colour in healthcare environments is as a movement indicator or wayfinding device, which aids in the identification of physical elements such as door handles, levers, grab rails and signage (Leibrock 2000: 82). Way-finding refers to information systems which are used to guide individuals through a building or environment, providing them with information to gain a better understanding of their location and destination. Colour can typically be used within the built environment to assist in orientation through signage, symbols and directional indicators (seen in Figure 2.1) (Leibrock 2000: 82). However colour as a movement indicator can further provide wellbeing properties to elderly patients by generating physical activity which aides their overall physical health and mental well-being (Mozzer 2014). Way-finding and orientational cues are important factors which must be included in health care, particularly aged care facilities, in order to function 16
successfully and assist people in their daily activities. In aged care facilities, it is generally suggested that bright hues be used to allow for higher visibility for patients with vision deficiencies. This indicator association of way-finding through colour can also be extended to the use of colour as a physical environmental safety aspect (Borrie, Geiger, Gibson, MacLean 2004). The primary users of the space must be taken into consideration, in this case staff and elderly patients, as well as any physical or psychological disabilities. As previously discussed, the primary age associated visual degeneration issues are a result of yellow tinting of the lens and colour blindness. Each can impact the way an individual perceives colour or lack of colour, thus extreme consideration must be taken into effect when designing a space for affected users. In order for colour to be used as a movement indicator it must be understood what movements exist and should be accounted for within aged care. The movements of aged care residents depend on the age-affiliated deficiencies that may develop, however there is a common feeling of isolation, confusion and unsettlement (Fedderson et al. 2009: 33). In correspondence with behavioural indicators, dementia patients should be considered particularly for the common movement patterns they experience; these being wandering, feeling lost and searching for something (Fedderson et al. 2009: 33). Using colour to dictate movement through signage, symbols, direction or for defining space assists elderly patients by responding to these movements and providing navigation. Utilising colour as a movement indicator encourages patients to engage in physical activity which assists in the self-healing process along with their physical and psychological well-being. Colour as a movement indicator is primarily seen in corridors, public spaces and circulation spaces. However, Mahnke suggests that when using colour in hallways, consideration should be focused on creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. Colour should not be overwhelming, however a lack of colour can create â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;emotional sterility and may not be calming or attractiveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to its daily users (Mahnke 1996: 150).
Figure 2.1 Colour as a Way-finding Device, Carros Parking Lot & Urban Planning, Carros, France, N+B Architects, Photographed by Paul Kozlowski, accessed 14 November 2019, <https://www.archdaily.com/ 58437/carros-parking-lot-urbanplanning-nb-architectes>
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Colour as a behaviour indicator Behaviour refers to the way in which an individual ‘acts or conducts’ themselves, notably towards other people. Behaviour can be triggered by events or stimulus, particularly in social situations. Behavioural indicators within an aged care environment can refer to psychological and memory triggers which can affect the way in which individuals perceive a space. These indicators can ultimately affect whether an individual feels comfortable and safe within a space, a primary aim for aged care facilities (Mahnke 1996: 146). It is important to consider the visual deficiencies which may affect the way in which colour as a behavioural indicator is perceived, however the psychological condition of dementia is a principle factor which can influence which behaviours must be considered. Patients who suffers from dementia experience the loss of memory, social isolation and disorientation, this leads to a loss in ‘their sense of identity and will to actively control and shape their environment’ (Fedderson et al. 2009: 32). This loss of identity and control must be considered when designing an aged care space. By using constant colours and spaces that are reflective or provide a comforting aspect of their past, architects and designers can successfully create a consistent physical space that provides ‘dementia sufferers with a feeling of stability and security’ (Fedderson et al. 2009: 32). Colour as a behavioural indicator can be used both within private and social spaces to define boundaries and maintain a level of comfort for patients. Colour is most commonly applied to walls however it can be used as an indicator through decorative elements such as furniture and drapery. Natural colour can also be used to connect patients to the outside world, providing patients with the calming, beneficial properties of nature which can influence their behaviour. It is important to create a space that is consistent and features neither an ‘excess nor a lack or stimulation’. However, it is important to note that as dementia progresses, surroundings that may have previously been considered familiar can be suddenly perceived different and even ‘mutate to unknown nightmarish scenarios’ (Fedderson et al. 2009: 33). Fedderson explains that ‘from a neurological point of view, this change can be explained by the fact that our direct perception is not solely a real-time response but is also informed by long-term interpretive pattern from the past’, suggesting that the way these coloured spaces are interpreted can be affected by colour associations from an individuals past. Using colour to clearly define a social space from a private space assists in the patients way-finding process whilst moving through the space. The distinct use of different colours in a private space can be used to create an environment of comfort and security, one in which patients can easily navigate to retreat to when experiencing their feelings of disorientation or unsettlement. Creating a safe and comfortable space can assist in the lost feelings or desire to ‘go home’ that dementia patients may experience (Fedderson et al. 2009: 33). Thus, when considering colours within an aged care facility, it is important to keep them consistent throughout the space and not overwhelming, providing a sense of familiarity whether they are colours relevant to the patients past, home-life or pre-existing private space. 18
Colour as a social indicator Human interaction, specifically socialisation, is an important part of life. The act of socialisation for elderly individuals who reside in health care or aged care facilities is important in order to promote well-being and create an environment that enables self-healing. Social isolation is a prominent behaviour that individuals experience in elderliness. Psychological conditions such as dementia and depression can heavily influence an elderly patients mental health and the way they interact with others, often leading to social isolation (Fedderson et al. 2009: 30). Social indicators within an aged care environment are points of reference that indicate spaces designated for socialisation and social activities. Socialisation is an important activity for elderly individuals generating a sense of belonging that attributes to their physical and mental well-being (Mozzer 2014). Social spaces within an aged care facility can include treatment and therapy rooms, waiting rooms, corridors ad designated leisure spaces (Mahnke 1996: 149). When designing social spaces for the elderly within the built environment it is important to differentiate them from private or functional spaces such as therapy and work. Colour can be applied to surfaces and furnishings to create this distinction. Figure 2.2 demonstrates the use of minimal soft colour in contrast to the bright, highly saturated hues pictured in Figures 2.3 and 2.4, successfully defining the two spaces of public or social and private. The use of considered colour allows general users, in particular patients with visual and psychological age-related deficiencies which may effect how they perceive colour, to interpret and associate selected colours with different spaces. Colour can further be used in signage and symbols to assist in the colour association, providing navigation towards the designated social spaces. Suggested colours that can be used for social spaces are bright, low saturated, non contrasting hues that emit a calming yet inviting atmosphere, for example pale green or blue (Mahnke 1996: 150). It is particularly important to create easily identifiable social spaces to aid people with further stages of dementia in order to generate interaction and avoid social isolation. The interaction assists patients with their physical and mental well-being, promoting movement to these social spaces whilst generating socialisation. Ultimately, using colour to define and indicate social spaces within a contemporary aged care facility assists patients with an association on the function of a space, allowing them to match it with a colour for easier distinction and recognition. It further provides them with a clear distinction between loud social spaces and their quiet private space where they can retreat to to feel comfortable, safe and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;at homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (Fedderson et al. 2009: 33)
Figure 2.2 Colour as a Social Indicator, Mixed-use building, Strasbourg, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons, David Romero-Uzeda 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulon-architecte.fr/ projet/639/strasbourg>
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Figure 2.3 Colour as a Private Indicator, Mixeduse building, Strasbourg, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons, David Romero-Uzeda 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulonarchitecte.fr/projet/639/strasbourg>
Figure 2.4 Colour as a Private Indicator, Mixed-use building, Strasbourg, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons, David Romero-Uzeda 2015, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulon-architecte.fr/ projet/639/strasbourg>
The use of colour as indicators within contemporary aged care environments enables a specialised focus toward how staff and patients, particularly with visual and psychological deficiencies as a result of ageing, interact, perceive and use the space. The use of colour as a movement indicator, behavioural indicator and social indicator assists elderly patients with daily activities, helping them to navigate the space and feel comfortable. It is important to consider the visual deficiencies, particularly the discussed yellowing tinting of the lens and colour blindness, and the effect they have on colour perception, noting which colours and their properties are suitable and unsuitable to be used within a healthcare space (Mahnke 1996: 148). However it is also important to consider the psychological effects of dementia and how it too can influence how one perceives space and colour, particularly the memory and behavioural triggers they may be associated with (Fedderson et al. 2009: 33).
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Chapter Three: Case Study Examples of Colour Indication Consideration in Contemporary Aged Care Facilities
The developed understanding of the physical and psychological well-being properties of colour application through both a visual and physical means, has allowed for contemporary health care facilities to incorporate this understanding into their designs. However consideration must also be taken into why certain colours should and should not be used and the associated age-related deficiencies which may affect how and whether individuals can perceive these colours. Chapter Three will focus on the three ideas of colour usage as movement, behaviour and social indicators as established in Chapter Two, through the introduction and analysis of three contemporary case study examples which successfully enable these indicators through the incorporation of colour into their spatial designs in order to achieve physical and psychological well-being. The Santa Rita Geriatric Centre by Manuel Ocaña enables colour as a movement indicator to assist senior patients with way-finding and orientation. The Maison d’Accueil Spécialisé Nursing Home for the Seriously Disabled in Mattaincourt, France, designed by Dominique Coulon & Associates encompasses colour through both the built environment and natural surroundings in order to promote behavioural well-being. Torre Julia is a housing complex for senior citizens designed by Ricard Galiana, Sergi Pons and Pau Vidal which utilises colour as a social indicator in order to encourage residents to move through common spaces and initiate social interaction. By understanding the need for considered colour, these architects have designed three completely separate spaces which each individually utilising natural and built colour in new and different ways, as well as a visual indicator for patients in order to benefit their lives through physical, behavioural and social well-being.
Case Study One: Colour as a Movement Indicator The Santa Rita Geriatric Centre in Menorca, Spain is an aged care facility designed by architect Manuel Ocaña which accommodates residents who are in the last phase of their lives. Completed in 2009, the structure sits across 5900 square metres and accommodates 70 patients and 20 day staff (Feddersen et al. 2009: 186). Ocaña aimed to design a structure which did not physically resemble a typical hospital instead creating a space which provided patients with privacy, accessibility and self-determined freedom. The site is highly reflective of its context; the form itself is a topographical loop of the filled in quarry on which it is situated, Ocaña has also used contour lines derived from the topography of the quarry on the concrete ceiling of the circulation. The two storey structure is comprised of four main elements: the patients rooms which are accessible from both the interior and exterior courtyards, three interior courtyards, health care and recreational facilities and the circulation path which connects the spaces to one another. The space is broken 21
down into three main ‘living loops’ with each having patient rooms and facilities surrounding an interior courtyard (Feddersen et al. 2009: 187). The space is governed by the principle of openness; the circulation areas are generously accessible with direct views into the different courtyards, freestanding toilets and therapy spaces. Ocaña has used both natural and built colour within the structure, with the previously mentioned coloured lines painted on the concrete slab ceiling reflecting ‘the contours of the topography of the former quarry below’ (Feddersen et al. 2009: 187). The coloured contour lines provide patients with orientation through the three ‘living loops’, guiding them from their rooms to the therapy facilities and social spaces. The coloured lines harness a consistent palette in each of the zones, using various shades of orange, green and red. These lines and colours are further reflected in the common areas and treatment spaces where Ocaña has continued them on the ceiling whilst also using them on the walls (seen in Figures 3.1 and 3.2). The use of coloured lines as a movement indicator within the Santa Rita Geriatric Centre, assists patients through physical and visual cues in the way-finding process (Borrie et al. 2004). The pathways provide the patients will circulation however the use of the the coloured lines allows patients to associate a given colour with a given space that uses the same colour walls, assisting to build patterns in their memory through a daily understanding and recollection of the areas they visit or use. The three interior courtyards also introduce natural colour through vegetation and foliage, providing various perspectives which stimulate and encourage the residents to ‘discover their environment’. The use of colour highlights the idea introduced in Chapter Two surrounding the need for aged care patients to be physical and active, rather than confined to their private living spaces, in order to promote both physical and mental well-being (Mozzer 2014). Consequently, The Santa Rita Geriatric Centre is a facility that successfully uses colours as a movement indicator, assisting patients with way-finding within the space. The consideration in to how the colours link to an associated space, assists patients through their daily lives and enables them to participate in physical and therapeutic activities which promotes physical well-being.
Figure 3.1 Colour as a Movement Indicator, The Santa Rita Geriatric Centre, Menorca, Spain, Manuel Ocaña, Photographed by Miguel de Guzmán 2009, accessed 14 November 2019 <https://www.archdaily.com/24725/santa-ritageriatric-center-manuel-ocana>
Figure 3.2 Colour as a Movement Indicator, The Santa Rita Geriatric Centre, Menorca, Spain, Manuel Ocaña, Photographed by Miguel de Guzmán 2009, accessed 14 November 2019 <https://www.archdaily.com/24725/santarita-geriatric-center-manuel-ocana>
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Case Study Two: Colour as a Behaviour Indicator The Maison d’Accueil Spécialisé (MAS) Nursing Home for the Seriously Disabled is an aged care facility located in Mattaincourt, France. Designed by Dominique Coulon and Associates, the structure was completed in 2010 and spans across 3250 square metres. The Mattaincourt facility harnesses the properties of both natural colour and built colour, which further reflects the natural environment in which the building is situated, in order to create a space which promotes behavioural well-being. The architectural work of Dominique Coulon and Associates has a strong focus on using colour in minimal yet impactful ways whilst harnessing the natural beauty of the environment in which the structure is situated. They have successfully done so with the Mattaincourt facility, succinctly blending the large building into the topography of the landscape. The design is situated across two-storey’s which are divided into operational work and living spaces. The first floor houses the internal garden, administration, staff premises and public reception spaces, creating a smooth transition between the public and private spaces. The second floor accommodates 40 individual patient rooms, common living areas and treatment facilities. (Dominique Coulon and Associates 2010). The second floor utilises wide open circulation spaces in order to promote ‘fluid movement’, with large windows which provide views into the surrounding landscape. Coulon and Associates have used colourful patios which incorporate built colour as well as harnessing natural colour and lighting, to create peaceful spaces, which also act a movement indicator; guiding patients as they move through the building (Dominique Coulon and Associates 2010). The patient’s rooms are situated around the outer edge of the building, centralising the interior garden. Each room has openings on both sides; one to the interior corridor and one to the individual patio, with the patios providing filtration and natural light. Coulon and Associates has focused on the direct connection with the natural environment by insuring that all other openings in their room apart from the door to the corridor connect the resident to nature. The brightly colour corridors and patios contrast from the calmer private spaces of the residents (refer to Figures 3.3 and 3.4). Thus, creating a space that ‘detaches itself from the institution to form a personal space’, allowing the residents to feel comfortable and at home. The treatment facilities along with the common areas, which include the dining area and activity room, are positioned around the centralised heart of the building. Once again the architects have allowed for the direct connection with natural colour and the surrounding landscape by using openings within the central space to connect it to a panoramic patio. The multiple patio’s which are positioned within the space invite tranquility and peacefulness, invoking an atmosphere that supports self-healing and well-being. Coulon and Associates have used various shades of orange, green and red to paint the interior spaces and walls. These colour work to harmonise with the surrounding landscape, with wildflowers and grass in similar shades growing around the building. Ultimately, the architects have successfully created an environment that uses colour and the natural environment to generate a peaceful space which promotes patients well-being. 23
Figure 3.3 Colour as a Behaviour Indicator, Home for the Seriously Disabled, Mattaincourt, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons 2010, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulonarchitecte.fr/projet/564/mattaincourt>
Figure 3.4 Colour as a Behaviour Indicator, Home for the Seriously Disabled, Mattaincourt, France, Dominique Coulon and Associates, Photographed by Eugeni Pons 2010, accessed 14 November 2019, <http://coulon-architecte.fr/projet/564/mattaincourt>
Case Study Three: Colour as a Social Indicator Designed by architects Ricard Galiana, Sergi Pons and Pau Vidal, Torre Julia is a 17-storey government issued apartment block for senior citizens which was completed in 2011. Located in Barcelona, Spain, the structure covers 8391 square metres with 77 apartments as well as seperate communal areas, storage and parking spaces.The building uses colour as a social indicator through the division of three distinct coloured areas, also referred to as communities. The architects use of three different shades; a dark green, light green and bright yellow, help to distinguish the seperate communities and corner communal spaces, creating orientation through the space. The green and yellow provide a ‘calming’ and ‘uplifting’ environment as described by architect Pons, however it is also reflective of the nearby soccer field which can be viewed from the balconies and circulation space located on the facade of the building, ultimately connecting the building to its surrounding context (refer to Figure 3.5) (Frearson 2012). The architects have used colour not only as a movement indicator but as a strong social indicator to positively influence the residents daily activities and well-being. The building features wide corridors which overlook the city, providing residents with direct and extensive views, in order to create an open space that does not confine the user. The communities which each span across five levels, feature larger assigned community spaces as well as staircases, painted in the corresponding yellow or green colours, which lead to double height communal spaces that overlook the surrounding area (refer to Figures 24
3.6 and 3.7); to which the architects describe as ‘intended to give elderly people an opportunity to socialise and engage in community activities’ (Spanish Architects 2019). The roof top garden, which employs a consistent white and green colour palette, through the use of natural plant colour and white Acieroid metal cladding, also acts as a socialisation space for both residents, visitors and their families. The colourful corridors act as a guide for residents, leading them to the community and social spaces, prompting an increase in interaction and communication; an important activity for elderly people who suffer from reclusion and antisocial behaviour as they age (Fedderson et al. 2009: 30). The architects have also considered the physical well-being of the residents, designing the first floor interior spaces to ‘become an extension of the exterior’ street level, hence improving accessibility and creating a fluidity between the interior and exterior to which the residents can move freely thus encouraging movement and exercise (Spanish Architects 2019). The first floor spaces are primarily white with small accents of green and yellow foreshadowing and navigating the residents to the colour communities above. The architects further envisioned the corridors as streets, creating an environment that although is still within the building, allows the residents to perceive as if they were in a ‘healthy, bright outdoor space’ (Spanish Architects 2019). Torre Julia has successfully been designed to fulfil its intention, creating a community space within a residential building. The architects focus on a consistent course of interaction and communication between the elderly community through colour oriented communal spaces assists in the general well-being of the residents.
Figure 3.5, Structure and Surrounding Content, Torre Julia, Barcelona, Spain, Ricard Galiana, Sergi Pons and Pau Vidal, Photographed by Adrià Goula 2012, accessed 14 November 2019, <https://www.dezeen.com/2012/10/18/torrejulia-housing-by-pau-vidal-sergi-pons-and-ricard-galiana/>
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Figure 3.6 Colour as a Social Indicator in Double Height Spaces, Torre Julia, Barcelona, Spain, Ricard Galiana, Sergi Pons and Pau Vidal, Photographed by Adrià Goula 2012, accessed 14 November 2019, <https://www.dezeen.com/2012/10/18/torre-juliahousing-by-pau-vidal-sergi-pons-and-ricard-galiana/>
Figure 3.7 Front Elevation, Torre Julia, Barcelona, Spain, Ricard Galiana, Sergi Pons and Pau Vidal, Photographed by Adrià Goula 2012, accessed 14 November 2019, <https://www.dezeen.com/2012/10/18/torre-julia-housingby-pau-vidal-sergi-pons-and-ricard-galiana/>
Through analysis it is evident that all three case study examples harness colour as a movement indicator, providing orientation and assisting residents in way-finding through the spaces. However, the examples of the Mattaincourt Nursing Home for the Seriously Disabled and the Torre Julia apartment block both utilise colour as more than just a movement indicator, with a focus on behavioural and social well-being. Although these spaces successfully use colour to benefit the residents and patients, there needs to be more consideration into which colours are used in these spaces, particularly if they are catering for elderly users who may be affected by visual and psychological age-affiliated deficiencies.
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Conclusion
Through this dissertation, the importance and understanding of colour consideration and usage within contemporary aged care facilities was explored and developed. The beneficial qualities that colour can provide for patients with age-affiliated visual and psychological deficiencies in order to promote physical and mental well-being and self-healing was understood to be one that had greater impact when colour was identified as seperate indicators within a space. The importance of recognising visual deficiencies as a result of ageing, allows architects and designers to create spaces that are universally applicable. Chapter One gave insight into the age-affiliated conditions of yellow tinting of the lens, colour blindness and dementia, highlighting colours and schemes that work successfully but also ones which unsuccessfully alter an individuals perception of their environment (Mahnke 1996). Using colour as a navigation device allows for assistance in the movement of elderly individuals through a space through way-finding, orientation and other physical elements (Leibrock 2000: 82). The Santa Rita Geriatric Centre in Menorca, Spain, designed by Manuel Ocaña successfully harnesses colour by using coloured lines and shapes to navigate patients and staff through the facility. The association of colour to a designated space assists in the patients’ memory by building patterns through a daily understanding and recollection of the spaces they visit or use. By impacting the behaviours elderly patients have colour allows for boundaries to be set, defining spaces that function as ‘healing’ as well as spaces they can retreat and seek comfort in. The use of built colour in combination with natural colour best allows for this process. The case study of the Dominique Coulon and Associates, Nursing Home for the Seriously Disabled in Mattaincourt, France successfully provides a calming, treatment space for elderly patients to which they can peacefully develop their well-being and accomplish self-healing (Dominique Coulon and Associates 2010). The use of colour as a social indicator within an aged care environment assists in the recognition of private and social space. The definition between spaces allows for the human interaction of socialisation to occur, an important process which assists in the mental well-being of aged care residents (Mozzer 2014). Designed by Ricard Galiana, Sergi Pons and Pau Vidal, the Torre Julia apartment block in Barcelona, Spain, successfully creates a clear definition between the communities and the social spaces within them, using colour to highlight designated spaces. The use of colour assists in orientating the resident towards the coloured communal spaces, providing them with an opportunity to socialise and engage with their community (Spanish Architects 2019). This understanding of how colour can define space through consideration and application, allows for its use of colour as social indicator to assist aged care residents with navigation and socialisation. By combining the understanding of how colour can be applied and the limitations surrounding which colours are selected, in regards to aged-affiliated visual deficiencies which can alter and affect how colour and space is perceived, architects and designers can successfully create contemporary aged care spaces that cater to a 27
universal audience. These spaces can provide comfort and safety, assisting patients through the daily activities of their final stages of life, ultimately promoting an environment of self-healing and well-being.â&#x20AC;Š
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