MEGAN PRITCHARD INTERIORS

DESIGNING A NEW WAY OF LIVING

There is a real lack of appropriate housing for many people with developmental disabilities and especially for adults with autism with their specific requirements that they often have with environmental sensitivities. The development and design of the individual residences will serve as a major feature with the community as it will become the place of comfort, refuge and relaxation to many. By allowing residents the opportunity to maintain a home, their independence becomes reinforced. Though some tasks such as cooking or maintaining personal hygiene may become difficult for some - proper technological devices and design implementations can provide assistance. By including appropriate planning strategies within residential homes, we can assist in avoiding potential issues that may necessitate a subsequent move which could prove debilitating for these residents who need stability and consistency in their lives.

Given that some individuals may experience stimulation overload more than others, it is necessary to allow control of the features by including a sensory room in each residence to accommodate both prosthetic and therapeutic support. Residents will take cues from the environment therefore factors of continuity and familiarity have been implemented in the layout and key design features within the group home. Integration of technology should provide tolerance for potential error as well as preventive measures to ensure personal safety of residents. Developing efficient layouts will reduce the potential for unwanted clutter and safety hazards.

Social interactions among adults with IDD have shown to act as a significant therapeutic activity but can also present challenges. Each resident/ home includes private and public spaces that encourage residents to gather and contribute as well as sustain feelings of pride and independence.