Senior living homes
Bathroom Lighting Design for Senior living homes
Place light where people work or read faces. Layer task light over ambient light and test glare from occupied positions.
Explore the ideas
Plan in this order
- Mark tasks, viewing angles and screen locations on the furniture plan before placing fittings.
- Separate regularly used tasks from the room's general lighting so each can be controlled independently.
- Test the proposed fitting and finish sample together. Glossy finishes can reflect a bright source directly into view.
Worked example
Imagine a resident who wakes at night and needs to find the bathroom while a bright ceiling light disturbs a sleeping partner.
Explore a separately controlled low-level route light and a task light for care activities. Put controls where the resident can reach them, and have a qualified professional confirm suitable fittings and placement.
How to test it
Check the space in daylight and after dark. Stand and sit where people actually use it, and check controls from the entry.
Apply it to this space
- Layout
- Keep entry, toilet and shower approach unobstructed; place frequently used items within seated or standing reach.
- Detail
- Choose visually distinct fittings and non-glare lighting; select appropriate support features with a qualified professional.
- Trade-off
- Additional support features can feel institutional if their placement ignores the room’s overall design.
- Review transfers and reach with the resident
- Check slip risks, lighting and water controls
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