Rebecca Dalzell

Early Concept Board

Reconnect- building exterior showing car park and considerations of safety

Axonometric View - Ground Floor I have created an exciting yet safe journey through the space by partitioning areas so that the user can feel that they have a choice of where to spend time, yet as both floors are largely open plan, the user is usually visible to staff, and can easily find their way within the space. The organic shapes of the walls and partitions reflect the concept of gradual light and nature seeping through the space. The central feature houses a tree which reflects the major values of Reconnect; re-growth and connections with the surroundings. It runs through the centre of the building, connecting it vertically and is open at the top, allowing light to flow in easily. It serves as a centre point to the building as a whole, and can reassure the user of their whereabouts.

Axonometric View- First Floor

Possibly the focal point of the building- this central cylinder spans two floors vertically, and is open to the air at the top. It houses a tree and other foliage, bringing both nature and light into the very core of the structure. It provides visual drama and allows the user to be surrounding by nature yet remain indoors in a warm environment. Seating is located around this feature, and a lowered ceiling carrying recessed spot lights mean that this area has its own identity. It is close to the kitchen, and tea can be brought to the user of the area on a tea trolley.

This image shows how the successful the recessed spot lights can be on a darker day. They will work in conjunction with the ceiling lights to provide a warm atmosphere during dull and wet days.

Sectional View of the vertical relationship between the two stories, and how this central feature provides a direct connection.

The furniture and dividing screens around the centre cylinder are movable, creating an adaptable feature so that, on occasion small events can be held for example with music and dancing. This capitalises on the light in the area, and space which can become available.

The dark sensory room uses a combination of lighting, touch screen technology, and music to engage the more curious or restless user. The screen is equipped with touch recognition, so that personal photos (left by families etc,) can be shown, and music played. This will be particularly beneficial for the dementia sufferer as it can occupy the mind. The lighting system is interactive, with hanging pull chords so that, to an extent, the user can manipulate their surroundings.

This area provides direct connections with light and nature throughout the year, so that, when the weather does not permit outdoor activity, a warm, bright area is always available for relaxation. It is essentially a sensory experience as recessed spot lights give a slight green-yellow tinge to enhance the surrounding nature, and custom made ‘jugs’ release relaxing scents (lavender and lemongrass) when triggered.

Sectional View of the relationship between dark and light sensory areas. An acoustic wall covering (by Anne Kyyro Quinn) adds further drama in a subtle manner. The tactile quality of the design and felt material means that the user will be intrigued by how it feels, and how the light falls on it. Although music will be played at a low to moderate volume, this can also serve to contain the noise a great deal.

The library area is quite small, yet responds well to different types of light. It receives afternoon sunlight, and on dull days could be quite dark. However the inclusion of pendant lights and lamps means there is adequate visibility, and combined with a vinyl wall covering, there is cosy atmosphere. It receives more natural light again from the roof sky light, and drapes have been added over the windows to reduce any glare from the computers on very sunny days.

Art produced by the members will be shown in the exhibition area where, on occasion, family members can come and view the work. Exhibiting space includes two large curved, ‘floating’ boards (suspended from ceiling in order to light flow around them and create a more open environment) and four exhibition tables. The Exhibition area dominates most of the top floor, and works in harmony with the art room. The close proximity between the two should provide inspiration for artistic activity as the user can relate to existing art, and envisage their own piece being exhibited.

This area is adaptable in the sense that some evening functions can take place here (e.g. wine tasting). Exhibition stands can double up as drinks tables, while the lighting can adapt to the time of day. The flat roof directly above this area is glazed meaning there is sufficient light falling upon the art work, and the inclusion of four large pendant lights (for the intensity will be controlled manually) means that the appropriate amount of light for good visibility can always be received.

Comfortable seating is located throughout the first floor, along with the inclusion of a television room. Pendant lights provide good visibility, and a warmer atmosphere, while sky lights within the pitched roof, and the glazed flat roof allow natural light to flow through this level. With the cylindrical central feature being quite dramatic and dominating, these breakout areas provide a more cosy and intimate setting.

It is important for the user to be in contact with nature, as well as to spend time within environments with the correct amount of light. This has been proven to yield holistic qualities, and for the dementia sufferer, can help to regulate their circadian rhythm. The outdoor space is located on the North West side, meaning that it receives most of its sun light in the evening. This ideal to combat symptoms of Sundown Syndrome (restlessness in late afternoon- common for dementia sufferers) as they are more aware of the time of day, and are aided by the artificial lighting which readies the eye for evening light.

Part of this decked outdoor space emerges into the building and is covered by a flat roof. This provides some shelter, and enables gardening activity throughout the year. It is something that can be done as an afternoon activity, and means that families can join in if they arrive at the centre at this time. From the bright seating area around this on the inside, to this sheltered space, to the outdoor area itself, is a gradual journey with a pleasant light gradient, meaning the eye has time to adjust.

When the dining tables from this area are pushed back, the space opens up a great deal, meaning that events such as dance competitions, or plays put on within the community can be held on the ground floor, and furnishings fixed around accordingly.

Reconnect scale model photograph

Reconnect scale model photograph

Reconnect scale model photograph