QLI Smart Apartment

The ‘smart apartment’ project was developed to address rehabilitative living spaces with the goal of providing a sense of independence to residents aided by a technology-rich environment. This state-of-the-art rehab living space exemplifies the power of technology to remove barriers and provide a continuation of care for successful client recovery. Created as a “playground” environment to monitor the impact of different technologies through the rehabilitation process, the smart apartments required a highly collaborative design process. The QLI team, physical and occupational therapists, home technology experts, and modular wall vendors provided input to create a design solution for healing and independent living. Throughout the design process, the design team, along with healthcare and technology experts, made a point of putting themselves in the shoes and sometimes wheelchairs of QLI residents. Daily tasks like washing hands or opening cabinets can be challenging. To simplify such tasks, each unit is outfitted with customizable amenities. The bathroom sinks and handlebars raise and lower, cabinets, doors and window blinds are automated, along with app-controlled appliances and HVAC provide greater accessibility. Additionally, the units offer voice command capabilities that can control almost every feature. For example, if a resident doesn’t have full dexterity in their hands, they can say “all windows on” to active blinds or “turn shower on to 100 degrees.” Closet rods lower for wheelchair access while maintaining standard storage heights. The sleek-designed kitchen features knee clearance at the sink and stove, with a mirror above the stove to help residents monitor boiling water. Accessibility to the oven, dishwasher, and microwave was carefully planned. Top of mind for designers was how to make the space accessible for varying degrees of disabilities. The strategic use of space and placement of furniture accommodates wheelchair traffic, while maintaining a homey feel. Wood tones, soft whites and accents of blue were utilized to support a calming environment to aid in the end user’s transition of leaving a medical facility and regaining independence The apartments are among the first to administer modular wall and casework systems, allowing flexibility and adaptivity without destructive or time-consuming alterations. The modular walls allow for adjustments like the ability to switch screen location on either side of the bed, accommodating right- or left-hand dominant individuals. Televisions are equipped with Zoom for in-home therapeutic care and instruction as well as providing the opportunity to connect with distant family and friends. Artificial intelligence also plays a role in the units with sensors to indicate the likelihood of a fall, potentially preventing further injury and rehospitalization. This space offers an extra-wide, covered patio along the south side of the building. The view overlooks a pond and contributes to the overall sense of calming while providing a breath of fresh air. Natural light-filled and picturesque views of the pond make this a home and the ultimate relaxing living location.