The environments in which we live and work have a profound influence on our physical and psychological well-being. In healthcare settings, including mental health facilities, the environment can support recovery and well-being and has a real effect on patients’ perception of the care they receive. This goes beyond the necessity for cleanliness, infection control and the preservation of an individual’s privacy and dignity, to creating spaces that are fit for purpose and comfortable.
Research has repeatedly confirmed that a supportive and welcoming environment can have positive effects on both those who visit hospitals – whether as patients or visitors – and those who work in them.
Good acoustic conditions improve patient privacy and dignity and promote essential sleep patterns. Such conditions are key to healing. In addition to this good acoustic design brings other benefits in terms of patient and staff comfort and morale, as well as improved efficiency and usability of equipment. By installing carpets much of the sound within a room is absorbed thereby reducing sound reverberation. Carpets also help to improve the acoustics of a room by reducing impact noise.
Carpets can also help to improve indoor air quality and in turn contribute to a healthier living environment.
Therefore, with the innovative performance features of the ECONOMIX and Equinox collection, our carpets are fit for the demands of the mental health sector and aim to help create a safe, healthy and therapeutic environment.
It is also important to consider how the interior design and the selection of finishing products affect those with learning difficulties and those living with Autism. When it comes to Autism design all the senses have to be taken into consideration and thought must be given to many elements including pattern, colour, and design. Acoustics is another key factor and many of these topics are discussed in our Design with Autism in Mind guide.