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Annual conference 2014 - hilary dalke

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Topic: Colour – Its influence on
environment, behaviour, well-being, sensory design and special needs

Professor Hilary Dalke

The focus of
our work is always on the impact that colour can have. Acknowledging and
understanding the users of these spaces and especially those who may have
special care needs are of primary importance.

The talk will
highlight the ways in which colour has been an operator of feelings and will
cover some of the work carried out over the past few years in the public
sector. We will present examples of some colour design research employed to
come to an understanding of the broader subtle issues to do with colour and
environments and show results for people with autism, dementia, vision
impairment and long-term or mental health patients. Alongside the research we
will be showing evidence of best practice from some of our major design
projects including with NHS Estates, Docklands Light Railway, Age Concern and
the Audi Design Foundation.

Hilary is
director of Kingston University's Design Research Centre and Design for
Environments - a recognised centre of excellence on colour design and lighting.
Her latest work encompasses the functionality of colour within new sustainable
builds, with a particular emphasis on the design needs of people with special
needs (ranging from autism through to dementia).