Hazard to Haven: Considering Countertop Safety in Senior Living

Tops was recently consulted by a local architect for input on a new senior living community in Thurston County. With a rich history of contributing to various senior living communities, our team embraced the opportunity to provide valuable insights into the design process. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the unique challenges posed by senior living community projects and how Tops Countertops addressed them with a focus on functionality, safety, and aesthetic appeal.

Senior living countertop design considerations require different layouts than standard multifamily apartments. For example, the countertops and bar stool setup pictured here might be too high for comfort or safety of senior citizens.
Senior living countertop design considerations require different layouts than standard multifamily apartments. For example, the countertops and bar stool setup pictured here might be too high for comfort or safety of senior citizens.

Understanding Senior Living Design Challenges

When the architect initially approached us, the design presented potential hazards for the future residents. Sharp modern corners, protruding overhangs, and polished hard-surface flooring were identified as potential risks. Moreover, the design lacked the warmth and comfort essential for fostering a sense of community and well-being among the seniors.

Balancing Senior Living Functionality and Safety with Countertop Design

To address these concerns, our team at Tops Countertops embarked on a mission to integrate functionality and safety without compromising on design aesthetics. Traditional designs and colors, known for their warmth and familiarity, were chosen to replace the colder, sharper modern elements. Many multifamily project designers can (and should) cut corners sharply with countertops, resulting in a pointier edge profile but lower costs. For senior living facilities we recommended rounder than normal corners. Traditional styles inherently include rounded corners, large arcs, and heavier textures, making them inherently safer in a senior living setting.

Narrowing Senior Living Countertop Material Selection

Careful consideration was given to material selection to ensure a seamless integration with the existing design while enhancing the overall ambiance. The countertops, initially conceived as mere functional surfaces, were transformed into focal points that radiated comfort, sophistication, and safety. Our team selected materials that not only met the highest safety standards but also created a visually appealing environment catering to the preferences of the older generation.

The Transformative Power of Thoughtful Countertop Design

This senior living project stands as a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design and collaboration. As a stone fabricator dedicated to enhancing living spaces, we take pride in the positive impact we’ve made on the lives of the seniors in our community. It’s more than countertops; it’s about creating environments that elevate the human experience.

Our team at Tops Countertops recognized the importance of creating a design that fosters social interaction and emotional well-being for the senior residents. We collaborated closely with the architect to incorporate communal spaces with comfortable seating arrangements, encouraging residents to gather and connect.

Furthermore, the choice of countertop materials played a crucial role in enhancing the overall ambiance. By opting for textures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also tactilely comforting, we aimed to create an environment that resonates with the sensory preferences of the older generation.

The incorporation of accessible and adjustable features, such as countertop heights tailored to individual needs, exemplifies our commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that the senior living community is accommodating to residents with varying abilities.

More Than Senior Living Facility Countertops

At Tops Countertops, our commitment goes beyond crafting quality countertops. We are dedicated to creating living spaces that elevate the human experience. This project exemplifies our passion for making a positive impact on the lives of seniors in our community. Our job is to give you peace of mind for your commercial countertop projects and we strive to excel at our job!

And while countertops are often not the first consideration with senior living design they are an important part of the overall aesthetic. Nailing it for our customers is our job!

Contact Tops Countertops

Tops Countertops takes pride in being not just a supplier but a partner in creating senior living spaces that prioritize safety, functionality, and a sense of belonging. Our journey doesn’t end with countertops; it extends to making enduring contributions to the quality of life for the elderly. If you’re embarking on a senior living facility project, check out our commercial page and reach out to [email protected], and let’s collaborate on crafting spaces that truly enhance the living experience for seniors in your community.

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