In Glasgow, Scotland, Chris Stewart Architects and the Cube Housing Association are creating homes designed specifically for people who suffer from Alzheimer's disease. Color, lighting, floor plans, and other design elements are selected to help dementia victims complete simple daily tasks.

The carefully-planned complex of eight houses includes:
• See-through cabinets
• Open floorplans so that residents can see from one end of the house to the other
• Bathroom doors located where they can be seen from all parts of the house.
• Uniform lighting
• Matt surfaces (shiney surfaces may be perceived as wet and slippery.)
• Vivid colors to demarkate areas such as entrances and exits
• A central laundry center
• A station for round-the-clock care staff

Builders estimate that the project will be completed by December 2004.

Full story in the Scotland Evening Times.

Recommended book: The Complete Guide to Alzheimer's-Proofing Your Home by Mark L. Warner, A.I.A.