In September 2024, the fifth Building Insights LIVE roundtable took place at London’s RIBA HQ, addressing a critical and growing challenge in the construction and healthcare industries: designing dementia-friendly environments. With the UK’s ageing population, the number of people living with dementia is projected to double by 2051, presenting architects and design teams with unique opportunities to positively impact care environments.
The discussion focused on developing best practices that balance large-scale standardisation with the need for highly individualised, supportive spaces. As dementia increasingly affects residents in care homes, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities, the roundtable emphasised the importance of tailored design approaches to ensure quality of life for patients.
James Parker, editor and chair of the event, provides insights into these challenges and shared key takeaways on how designers and stakeholders can collaborate effectively to address the diverse needs of people with dementia.
Attendees:
- Fiona Walsh, Principal Architect, DDS Architects
- Clare Cameron, Architect & Director, PRP Architects
- Robert MacDonald, Independent Consultant
- Eef Hogervorst, Professor of Psychology, Loughborough University
- Paul Rodgers, Professor of Design, University of Strathclyde
- Lesley Palmer, Architect & Professor, Dementia Services Development Centre, Stirling University
- Rob Hayles, Health & Built Environment Lead, Citizens with Experience
- Sophia Wise, Head Of Regional Commercial UK & Ireland, Amtico Flooring
- Donna Taylor, Colour Design Manager, Johnstone’s Trade Paints
- Ashley Cooper, Managing Director, WMS Underfloor Heating
Listen to our ‘Design Solutions for Supportive Dementia Care Environments’ Podcast here.
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TopicsDesign for Dementia