Laura Wood discusses how to Design with Dignity.
Hello, Healthy Home Show listeners! Welcome to the heady heights of Episode 5! In this interview, I had a super interesting chat with Laura Wood, co-founder and director of Invisible Creations, a company revolutionising Inclusive design.
On the surface, grab rails and other mobility aids are possibly not the sexiest of subjects to chat about, but Laura made me think about design from a completely different perspective and cast a whole new light on Ergonomics around the home. We talk a lot about Inclusive Design in the Interiors world, but it turns out that most design is not very inclusive. Why shouldn’t people with mobility issues be able to have über-stylish homes too?
Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:
The Inspiration Behind Invisible Creations
Laura’s journey began with her grandmother, whose home was becoming a source of disability due to its inaccessibility. Witnessing her struggles, Laura aimed to create products that support mobility while maintaining dignity and style. Invisible Creations focuses on designing attractive, functional items that blend seamlessly into homes, benefiting everyone, not just those with disabilities.
The Concept of Inclusive Design
Laura emphasised the importance of inclusive design—creating products that everyone can use. This includes transforming everyday items like toilet roll holders and towel rails into sturdy, dual-purpose grab rails. The goal is to make these products desirable and beneficial for all, promoting safety and independence.
Expanding Product Range
Starting with bathroom grab rails, Invisible Creations now designs entire bathrooms and gardens. By making outdoor spaces accessible, they’ve recognised the critical role of nature in well-being. Their designs ensure that spaces are not only safe but also adaptable to changing needs over time.
Impact on Lives
Laura shared heartwarming stories, including one about Kelly, a vibrant young woman with mobility challenges. Kelly’s story highlights the importance of design that respects personality and style while providing necessary support. Invisible Creations’ products have allowed her to use her bathroom independently, a significant boost to her quality of life.
Beyond Homes: Potential for Workspaces
While their focus has been on homes, Laura noted the potential for inclusive design in workplaces, hotels, and public spaces. Observing accessible bathrooms in various establishments revealed a lack of aesthetically pleasing options, indicating a need for better design in public areas.
Overcoming Stigma
Laura addressed the stigma associated with clinical-looking mobility aids. Invisible Creations aims to normalise the use of stylish, supportive products to prevent falls and injuries before they occur. This proactive approach can significantly reduce hospitalisations and maintain independence.
The Future of Inclusive Design
Looking ahead, Laura is excited about integrating technology into design. Gadgets that enhance safety, like sensors for kitchen hobs or bed monitors, offer immense potential. These innovations can provide unobtrusive support, improving safety and quality of life without compromising on design.
The Bigger Picture: Societal Benefits
Inclusive design not only benefits individuals but also reduces societal costs. By preventing falls and injuries, it decreases the burden on healthcare systems and prolongs independent living, reducing the need for expensive care facilities.
Useful Stats
- 43% of doorstep crimes are linked to homes with visible signs of vulnerability, such as traditional grab rails.
- 1 in 3 adults aged 65 and older falls each year, and falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older people. Preventative measures like grab rails can significantly reduce this risk
Final Thoughts
Laura encourages everyone to consider inclusive design in their homes, not just for elderly or disabled relatives but for future-proofing their spaces. For more information, you can follow Invisible Creations on Instagram, Linkedin, and Facebook, or visit their website at invisiblecreations.co.uk. Their products are also available at B&Q!
I hope you have enjoyed hearing about how Ergonomics can affect our health in this week’s episode. If you are interested in diving into the other 11 concepts that create a Healthy Home, there’s loads more info on my website – www.charlielemmer.com
Please leave a review for the show, if you are so inclined. It really helps me understand where to guide the content next or you can just give a rating. And, if you prefer to watch your content on YouTube, we have that covered too!
Be WELL
Charlie x
0 Comments