Designers should understand how and why spaces can become therapeutic to those occupying them. The manner in which the individual occupying the space perceives the environment should be at the forefront of those designing the space and as such, influence the way the materials are selected, including acoustic flexible design due to operational changes. The average cycles of change in aged care is 5 years due to government policy, management and changes in the market. Flexible design should address future trends and changes in patient profile that is, meeting the increasing demands on space and facilities because of increased patient numbers and in bariatric patients. Allowing for changes to two spaces such as interlocking rooms, for example enabling residents and couples to share spaces, with the flexibility that when the division of space is no longer required it can be reconfigured accordingly.
The flexibility that Operable walls offer can significantly lower building costs. As we have already discussed, space is becoming more premium and the demands to do more for less increases. Space adaptability and effective space management is therefore critical. Issues pertaining to privacy are also addressed with the used of flexible space solutions. The benefits of operable walls include:
Various operable walls have acoustic properties thus creating excellent noise barriers, which in turn provides a temporary privacy solution when required. Consider an operable wall that maximises sound control.
