Walking into AQ’s Gordon Park Multi Service Centre on Brisbane’s northside, which offers 24-hour community respite, feels like stepping into an inviting, elegant home.

The feeling of homecoming is precisely what design team lead Katerina Sparti set out to create

“Our aim is to improve the function of the spaces, and also, to provide an emotional connection,” she said.

“It should feel like a beautifully appointed home. It’s warm and layered, designed to evoke joy.”

The centre is housed in a traditional Queenslander cottage, and many aspects of the design, from the colours on the walls and ceilings, to the artwork and furnishings are deeply intentional.

“With the traditional cottages, we design and style the rooms to make it feel like a home, not a community hall with chairs all in a line,” Katerina said.

“You feel like you’re in someone’s home, and it’s an enjoyable place to be.”

According to Katerina, updating a classic Queenslander house comes with its challenges.

Access is the biggest one –timber cottages are usually elevated, so making them safe with ramps is always a challenge

Sometimes, the simplest changes can have the biggest impact. Some of the windows in the respite centre have had the original mottled glass panels replaced with clear glass, bringing in more light, and connecting clients to the outdoor space.

The communal spaces in the Gordon Park centre focus on social engagement opportunities.

There is an intentional space for clients to watch television if they wish to, but the focus is on areas to have conversation, play games, read, or take part in activities.

AQ’s Gordon Park Multi Service centre also caters to overnight guests, giving caregivers and family a break.

The design focus is on living spaces that are welcoming, homely and familiar for clients and their families.

One of the bathrooms has been renovated, beautiful glazed wall tiles and feature wall lights were included in the space

There are two bedrooms with twin beds, and one bedroom with a single bed. The rooms feature soft lamp lighting, enhancing the domestic feel of the spaces.

There’s also a modern kitchenette, and a comfortable lounge room.

While the overnight space is connected to the upstairs respite centre, there’s enough separation to ensure overnight stay guests aren’t disturbed.

“If someone wants to sleep in, they’re not disturbed by people arriving at the centre,” Katerina said.

On the upper level of the cottage there are a lot of different zones, multiple sitting rooms, an enclosed veranda and an outdoor deck, so not everyone is in the same room. For people with dementia, having a lot of people in one place can be very overwhelming.

There’s a laundry for any overnight guests who might want to do some washing, and there’s also a beautiful outdoor space for clients during the day, including a shed.

This space connects people to the outdoors.

Part of the appeal of AQ’s Gordon Park Multi Service centre is the co-location of allied health services right next door. Clients can attend respite and have their wellness and rehabilitation appointments during the day.

AQ aim to make care workable for adult children who are not only looking after their ageing parents but also working and raising their own children.

If you are interested in our centre services and would like a tour, call today 07 3857 2191 or email: alzgp@alzqld.org.au. You can also contact us at the AQ Resource Centre on 07 3422 3000.