Annual conference 2014 - hilary dalke

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).