Mental health - Dementia-friendly design
Minimise confusion
Navigating public spaces can be daunting for individuals with dementia. Dementia-friendly designs should minimise confusion and promote independence. Clear signage, non-glare surfaces and intuitive spatial layouts ensure ease of navigation and enhance the overall experience for individuals with cognitive impairments. This thoughtful approach to library design not only supports mental health but also fosters a sense of community and inclusivity.
Dementia-friendly design is key if you want to create inclusive spaces that cater to the needs of all visitors. Dementia affects memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language and judgment. Libraries, as community hubs, could be more accessible and welcoming to everyone, including those with dementia.
Niort Public Library, France
Clear signage for easy navigation
One of the primary elements of dementia-friendly design is clear and concise signage. Individuals with dementia often struggle with memory and spatial orientation. Therefore, signs should be prominently placed, using large, easy-to-read fonts and contrasting colours.
Icons and images can further aid in comprehension, allowing patrons to quickly identify different sections of the library. Consistent signage throughout the library ensures that users can navigate the space with confidence, reducing anxiety and frustration.
See our signage for all library books, shelves and displays.
Non-glare surfaces
Glare can be disorienting and uncomfortable for individuals with dementia, particularly those who also have visual impairments. Using non-glare surfaces on floors, walls and furnishings can significantly improve the environment. Matte finishes and soft, diffused lighting help to reduce glare, creating a more comfortable and accessible space.
Additionally, avoiding highly reflective materials can prevent confusion and disorientation, which are common challenges for those with dementia.
Intuitive layouts
An intuitive spatial layout is essential in a dementia-friendly library. Spaces should be designed with clear, logical pathways that guide patrons seamlessly through the library. Open and unobstructed sightlines allow users to see their destination from various points, reducing the need for complex navigation.
Design elements such as colour-coded zones and distinct landmarks can further assist in orientation, helping individuals with dementia move independently and confidently within the library.
Dokk1, Aarhus, Denmark
CASE
Great Sankey Neighbourhood Hub
Great Sankey Neighbourhood Hub, Warrington, is believed to be the first fully integrated, dementia-friendly wellbeing building and public library in the UK.
Peace
Creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere is vital for supporting the mental health of individuals with dementia. Sensory considerations, such as appropriate lighting, acoustic treatments, touch and choice of materials play a significant role in achieving this goal.
Lighting
Lighting should be carefully calibrated to provide adequate illumination without harsh glare. Natural light is ideal, but when artificial lighting is necessary, it should mimic natural light as closely as possible. Adjustable lighting options allow the environment to be tailored to different needs and times of day, enhancing comfort and visibility.
Acoustics
Noise can be overwhelming for individuals with dementia, making it difficult to concentrate and relax. Acoustic treatments, such as sound-absorbing materials, or nature inspired sound can help to minimize background noise. Creating quiet zones and rooms within the room allows patrons to focus on reading, studying or simply enjoying the library without the distraction of excessive noise.
Acoustic furniture
Configurable
Airleaf
Configurable
Lily acoustic lamp
Configurable
Senso modular sofa
Item no.: E3581
HabiCave Lounge Chair
Configurable
Zen Pod
Configurable
Sky
Item no.: E37085
Luna Sound Chair
Configurable
Basket Sofas, Chairs & Poufs
Configurable
Moon
Project inspiration
More mental health themes
Quiet zones
Shhh...
Design for relaxation
Be comfortable
Rooms within the room
Get privacy
Community activities
Sense of belonging
Guidance and resources
Seek information
Healthy workplace
Work conditions
Transform your library today
Dementia-friendly design is vital for mental health in libraries as it creates environments that support cognitive function and emotional well-being for visitors with dementia. By incorporating clear signage, comfortable seating and calming aesthetics, libraries ensure a welcoming and accessible space.
If you have a current or upcoming project you would like to speak with us about, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
