Environments for Aging - Spring 2022 - 43

limited range of fi nishes and colors, which were
largely neutral with some exceptions. A diff erent
color was chosen for each studio door to assist
with wayfi nding. Th is was later adapted by the
client marketing team as a part of their branding.
Darker and bolder accent materials were
chosen for the café, performance, and gallery
spaces as a subtle separation from the studios.
Th e jury stated numerous times that this project
" doesn't feel like senior living " -and that's
a good thing! Share the overall design aesthetic
and intent behind what was delivered.
Th e style and features of the Tribby Arts Center
were chosen to inspire and serve as a backdrop
for artist work. We wanted to create an inspiring
space that wouldn't take away from the beauty
of artist displays. Th e space was designed for
artists who just happen to be seniors. We looked
at what would make a space a great gallery, theater,
or studio, and then applied the knowledge
of what makes a space comfortable and safe for
seniors. A warm, industrial scheme was selected,
using neutral whites, grays, and blacks with
oak touches throughout the building.
To that end, the space will be fi lled with the
work of the residents. How did the design approach
ensure the art would be showcased and
not compete with the interiors?
Th e approach was to be very minimal and pared
back, such as exposed ceilings, clean white
walls, and stained concrete fl ooring. Th is created
the " space as canvas " to support the artist works.
In common areas where resident artwork would
not be showcased, we intentionally included
stronger design elements such as geometric wall
paneling gripping the walls and black slab porcelain
encasing the entryways to the theater.
Th e jury also applauded the lighting. What were
some of the solutions that were integrated and
how did they support the design vision?
Each studio group had its own requests for lighting
and even lighting temperatures. Th erefore,
having a multitude of choices was important to
the selection. Th e range of options was provided
through an array of custom lighting manufacturers,
which allowed us to keep a consistent
look through the spaces while still addressing
each user group's needs.
Th ese spaces were created to both support independence
and empower residents to pursue
their creative interests. How did that infl uence
your design decisions?
Our attempt was to be innovative with senior-friendly
conveniences throughout by integrating
them without feeling institutional.
[Examples include] subtle differences for the
studios, all the diff erent needs for seating and
castors versus gliders that would make sense,
accessible and automated controls for solar
shades, and even personal lockers integrated
into the cabinetry. All this imbued freedom to
the environment for residents to use their tools
with ease. For instance, while slat wall wasn't
our fi rst choice, it became the obvious one when
we determined it provided the ease for seniors to
hang the exhibitions themselves.
What was a personal design takeaway from
this unique project, or one you'd want to share
with the senior living design industry?
Th e vision to create a center of excellence for artist,
hobbyist, and admirers took commitment
from the residents, design team, and client. Th at
commitment was a powerful driving force in
our work. Th ink not only of what will work, but
what will exceed their expectations.-JKS
For more on this project, see page 56.
Opposite page: The second
fl oor overlooking the atrium
provides access to the performing
arts hall mezzanine
as well as a gallery. Slat walls
and white hollow display
pedestals allow residents to
easily reorganize the space.
Above: The ceramics studio
houses three kilns, four pottery
wheels, and the necessary
stations for prepping. Each
cabinet, drawer, and cubby has
interchangeable labels, and
chairs are provided with and
without arms to support
resident mobility.
Left: Specialized acoustic wall
materials as well as carpeting
in the music practice rooms
help mitigate sound reverberation
on all sides.
spring 2022 | 43
AMBER FREDERIKSEN PHOTOGRAPHY INC.
Environments for Aging - Spring 2022

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Environments for Aging - Spring 2022
