LEAFE: A Guide to the Outside

Sensory feedback

The biophilic handrail features an evolving wood texture that becomes increasingly pronounced as users approach the entrance to the garden. Beneath the rail, an ambient, pulsing green light provides subtle directional guidance. Additionally, a projector casts garden-themed vegetation onto the wall, with the projected visuals growing larger as users move closer to the garden entrance. This provides continuous sensory feedback through the handrail, while maintaining its primary safety function. The combination of tactile, visual, and interactive cues, reinforce the sense of wayfinding in the right direction. As a result, individuals may require less assistance from caregivers to navigate independently toward the garden.

Collaboration with care facilities

This project was developed in collaboration with the Zwanenhof Care Facility, located in Zenderen, and the University of Twente. Using persona-driven insights from Zwanenhof staff, we created a prototype grounded in theoretical research. The design aims to promote independence, confidence, and a greater sense of autonomy for people with dementia.