Extra Care design specification
For those of us involved in the delivery of Extra Care housing what is the viewpoint of the provision of windows from a kitchen area looking out onto a corridor?
Welcomed or not?
This provision invariably gives anyone passing in a corridor full view into an apartment through the kitchen area into the lounge unless it is shrouded by curtains, blinds etc
My views - based on different discussions.
The principle carries over from looking out onto the street - but the proximity IS closer.
- In general, it does give a greater sense of being part of community, looking out onto the world as people pass by, etc.
- It can give tell-tale signs for people to check-in (e.g. NN hasn't opened his/her blinds this morning)
- If privacy is preferred, then blinds, etc can be used in the day as well as in the evenings.
Privacy is a very personal matter - but the window gives choice, and does not mandate isolation.
Thank you for your thoughts and very valid points, response appreciated.
Sadly, you also find that the window (whether clear glass or frosted) will provide light from the corridor into the apartment. In many instances, your night carers/concierge/security will patrol the hallways and the going on and off of automated lights in those corridors (in my experience) is not widely welcomed - in many cases it actually adds to a sense of unease/anxiety about 'who is out there' rather than a feeling of security.