Designing environments that cater to high-dependency occupants is not just a matter of compliance, it’s a commitment to enhancing the quality of life, safety and independence for some of the most vulnerable members of our society.
Whether it’s adapting a home for elderly individuals, accommodating those with disabilities, or creating a comfortable, supportive space for individuals with complex medical needs, thoughtful design plays a crucial role.
Whilst there are obvious design considerations around wider doors and corridors, step free entry and handrails in bathrooms and toilets, windows are too an important consideration.
Designing spaces with Breezway Louvre Windows can bring several positive enhancements to a living environment.
Breezway Louvres are ideal for naturally lighting and ventilating a space to keep it fresh and comfortable while providing picturesque views out onto the building’s surroundings. This connection to nature can improve the mental well-being of an occupant and lead to healthier living.
Another unique feature of the Breezway Louvre Window is the ability to fully customise each window to suit the needs of occupants. This includes prioritising the accessibility and functionality of the louvre to foster comfort, dignity and sense of autonomy.
Breezway Louvres can be tailored to all different sizes so the window is at a level for optimal viewability or accessibility from a seated position. Standard Handles allow for easy grip and can be configured to the left or the right hand side of the window, up high or down low for easy access.
Breezway also offers the award-winning automated Powerlouvre System so windows can be easily controlled through a smart phone or building management system to keep the home freshly ventilated for those with limited ability to manipulate a handle.
Thoughtful consideration of bright or dark colours can be selected to make handles, louvre blades or even the window itself more visible within the home. Colours may even be selected to create interest or a sense of calm.
When it comes to compliance, Breezway Louvres have been extensively tested to meet the Australian Standards 2047 to offer protection from the elements. They are energy rated, bushfire rated and meet fall prevention requirements when using the Stronghold System which provides extra strength and safety to the window without compromising on views or ventilation.
This approach to design can enable high-dependency occupants to perform daily activities more independently, improving their quality of life and reducing reliance on caregivers.
Case Study using Breezway Louvres in High Dependent Housing
M + J Builders have successfully completed a rewarding project for Somerville, delivering seven specialised residences in Palmerston and Katherine for high dependency occupants.
The goal was not only to meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) but to also exceed the National Construction Code (NCC) guidelines by addressing the unique requirements of each individual with disabilities.
The homes feature a variety of amenities designed to enhance comfort and accessibility. The floors are laid with polished concrete for durability and ease of movement. The kitchens are equipped with Ropox benchtops, which can be adjusted in height, making the bench and cooktops accessible to wheelchair users. The properties are also designed with the provision for hoists, ensuring that they can be installed as needed for mobility support.
For natural ventilation, Breezway Altair Louvre Windows are strategically placed in the hallways, allowing breezes to circulate freely throughout the homes. The design also includes high venting ceilings with Breezway Louvres at higher levels to promote air circulation, while also allowing natural light to penetrate the centre of the buildings. The venting roofs contribute to a comfortable indoor climate by allowing hot air to escape through the louvre windows. These features collectively create a living space that is not only functional but also welcoming and sustainable.
These homes were rated 7.4 in energy efficiency. Read more here: https://hia.com.au/our-industry/housing/projects/2024/06/built-with-purpose
In addition to picking up the gong for 2024 HIA Australian Specialised Housing, M+J Builders also won the HIA Northern Territory Townhouse/Villa of the Year and HIA Northern Territory GreenSmart Sustainable Home in 2023.
