Korsakoff House

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Proposals to remodel a dilapidated semi detached house with dark, convoluted, circulation to create supported living accommodation for five residents with Korsakoff Syndrome (alcohol related dementia).  The Local Authority client required a non institutional home that would support the residents to live as independent a life as possible.  The brief was finalised after much debate with the client and fact finding visits to similar accommodation in other Boroughs.  Issues that were discussed included 'should the hostel be wet or dry?' (wet), the requirement for a lift (no, a stair lift instead) and the level and nature of assistive technology to be provided (a moving feast).

Both floors of the house are reconfigured to create a clear, simple circulation route with as much natural light as possible, bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms laid out to meet the specific requirements of dementia and light and generous communal rooms.  The interiors are neutral with an avoidance of strong patterns other than in a few defined areas.  Resident's doors are picked out in strong colours with a personalised panel by each door for easy recognition.  Generous living spaces allow residents to sit together or separately with further covered seating in the garden.  The kitchen is arranged to allow residents to cook simple snacks if they are able.