Colour Matters: 6 Essentials For Designing Changing Places

In our built environment, the significance of colour often goes overlooked. Yet, colour has a profound impact on our emotions, behaviours, and overall well-being. This rings especially true in spaces like Changing Places toilets, where accessibility and inclusivity are paramount.

In this blog, we’ll explore how the thoughtful application of colour can positively influence individuals with disabilities in Changing Places toilets, creating environments that promote comfort, safety, and dignity. It's crucial to acknowledge the diverse range of disabilities that users of Changing Places toilets may have. From physical impairments to sensory sensitivities, each individual’s needs must be considered when designing these spaces.

Colour can play a pivotal role in addressing these needs by providing visual cues, enhancing wayfinding, and fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Here are a few things to consider when designing your Changing Places Toilet:

One. Colour Contrast

For individuals with visual impairments, high colour contrast can aid navigation and identification of key elements within the restroom, such as grab bars, door handles, and signage.

Bold colours like blue or red against neutral backgrounds can draw attention to important features, making them easier to perceive for those with limited vision.

Two. Mood Enhancement

Moreover, colour can influence mood and emotional well-being. Bright, cheerful hues like blues and greens can evoke feelings of calmness and tranquillity, contributing to a more relaxed and positive restroom experience. Conversely, harsh or jarring colour schemes may provoke anxiety or discomfort, particularly for individuals with sensory processing disorders or autism spectrum disorders.

Three. Psychological Benefits

Another aspect to consider is the psychological impact of colour on hygiene and cleanliness perceptions. Light, neutral tones such as white or pastels can create an impression of cleanliness and sterility, instilling confidence in the restroom’s hygiene standards. Incorporating antibacterial coatings or materials can further enhance this perception, promoting a sense of safety and well-being among users.

Four. Differentiating Zones

Furthermore, colour can be used to differentiate functional zones within the restroom, facilitating intuitive navigation and usage. For example, using a distinct colour palette for the toilet area versus the sink and changing station areas can help users orient themselves more easily, especially for those with cognitive or memory impairments.

Five. Branding Your Changing Paces

In addition to its practical benefits, colour can also be a powerful tool for expression and identity. By incorporating elements of personalisation and cultural relevance into the design. Artwork, murals, or decorative accents inspired by local traditions or themes can create a sense of belonging and pride among users, fostering a more meaningful connection to the space.

Six. Hewi

Our accessories partner, HEWI, is particularly focused on colour. HEWI’s commitment to colour-focused accessibility solutions has significantly contributed to the inclusive design of Changing Places toilets. Their innovative products and expertise in colour psychology have played a crucial role in creating environments that prioritise both accessibility and aesthetics.

To Conclude

Ultimately, the thoughtful application of colour in Changing Places toilets can enhance accessibility, comfort, and dignity for individuals with disabilities. By considering the unique needs and preferences of diverse user groups, designers and architects can create inclusive environments that promote independence, confidence, and well-being for all.

In conclusion, colour is not merely a decorative element but a powerful tool for enhancing the accessibility and inclusivity of Changing Places toilets. From aiding navigation and wayfinding to promoting emotional well-being and hygiene perceptions, the strategic use of colour can transform these spaces into welcoming and empowering environments for individuals of all abilities.