Social housing provider Onward engaged 5plus to formulate an interior design vision for the amenity space within their Specialist Living properties. This concept was to build upon the success of their workplace fit-out designed by 5plus and implemented at their Liverpool headquarters.

The initial piece of work involved developing the client brief, working with Onward to conduct stakeholder consultations, undertake benchmarking visits and vision workshops.

Once the concept was defined, 5plus were tasked with creating a Design Guide that defines the interior design, as well as the signage and wayfinding strategy for typical communal and support spaces. The guide is intended to set the design quality standard and benchmark guidelines for design compliance, which can be rolled out across later living properties in Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside.

The result is a new brand and identity for Specialist Living, whilst creating a welcoming, homely and calming environment for residents. The design addresses the needs and requirements of senior living and is in keeping with dementia friendly principles.

The brand standard ‘tool-kit’ will also assist in streamlining property maintenance by providing facility managers with a curated set of options for flexibility within the design, whilst maintaining the overall brand identity.