3.8.3  Finishes, Fittings and the use of Colour

Finishes and fittings are to be chosen with consideration for their durability, the ability to be cleaned and resistance to wear and tear. In some areas, such entrance areas and circulation spaces, finishes are required to withstand heavy usage.

Suitable barrier matting must be provided and maintained at external entrances.

Colours, surface reflectance and texture are to be in accordance with CIBSE guidance for all interior build surfaces to facilitate visual comfort conditions generally, and office activities in particular.

Adequate pin-boards for display of notices and events are to be provided in positions that do not interfere with either daylight or services provision.

The Contractor shall use suitable colour schemes and colour coding to aid orientation and assist residents with visual and cognitive impairment and memory debilitating ailments including, for example, the careful use of contrast; use of bands of differing tiles in bathrooms, and contrasting tiles behind wc's. Floors are to be contrasting colour to walls. The Contractor shall note that the red and yellow end of the colour spectrum is the last to fail in the elderly, and these tones may be considered in colour schemes. Colour shall be used as coding for certain areas or activities i.e. yellow doors for toilets (used in apartments as well as communal facilities). Where a door is secondary and not intended for direct resident use, it shall be painted out to match wall colour. Stair treads need to contrast with walls and skirting shall be provided to stair strings for extra visual aid.

Objects e.g. art work and artefacts, shall be used and linked with colour to help with orientation.

Sofas, chairs and all other furnishings used in the communal areas shall be of domestic appearance and of a non-institutional design which facilitates their use by residents who may have mobility or other difficulties.