Sponge

This design dealt with the challenges people with cerebral palsy face in a living environment. We sought to implement universal design principles of functionality, flexibility, simplicity, and low physical effort, delivered through an aesthetically pleasing and engaging space. The proposal was for a virtual renovation of a typical Canadian bungalow residence, stripping out the partitions and cabinetry to create flexibility in size and function. 

The floor is one continuous level surface on thick cork underlay throughout with radiant flooring for warmth and comfort. Materials introduced are inspired from the softness of a sponge while remaining natural, resilient and easy to maintain. Outside corners were designed to be curvilinear surfaces to embrace movement. Lighting choices are influenced by therapy colors from LED and large textural pendants in the airspace. 

The bathroom was expanded for wheelchair access with accessible fixtures such as recessed wall-hung toilet, walk-in bathtub and no-curb walk-in shower. Kitchen includes wall oven, cooktop, drawer type appliances, drawer cabinetry and a mobile harvest table. The sunroom’s floor-to-ceiling glass invites the outdoors in. Easy access to the backyard where grass, trees and an accessible raised herb garden stimulate the senses.