Student research laid the groundwork for a newly redesigned shower room at Toronto Rehab University Centre for people living with dementia.

Located within the Specialized Dementia Unit, the space uses wood and natural colours to create a calmer atmosphere. Showering can often be disorienting and stressful for people with dementia due to the unfamiliar surroundings.

The project began at OCAD University’s graduate Design for Health Spatial Studio. The initial concept was developed in collaboration with Dr. Ron Keren, a geriatric psychiatrist at Toronto Rehab, which is operated by the University Health Network (UHN). Led by associate professors Maya Mahgoub-Desai and Bruce Hinds, with research methods support from professor Dr. Kate Sellen, the studio guided students through an evidence-informed design process.

Kasian Architecture was selected to work on the project. The team worked closely with UHN, family members, and researchers to implement a human-centered design approach. The process included direct engagement with a community group of individuals with lived experience in dementia caregiving.

In a press release, Kasian representatives said the project demonstrates the impact of targeted, evidence-informed interventions.