Interior decorating tips for the blind?

Question

A friend of mine is blind and soon moving into her own flat for the very first time. She has plenty of tools to assist her in her daily tasks, she does NOT need more of those. She is just looking for some creative ideas on decorating her new place.

Framed pictures and color schemes are obviously out!

Any suggestions?

Liz, you might think it is dumb. But the only thing she cannot do is see and that is no reason for her not to take care of herself or her surroundings. She loves natural fabrics, is very musical and has a great interest in sculpture and 3-D art work.

Answer 1

'Soft' furniture is a must. Preferably round corners on tables -otherwise get the little covers that can be used for 'child proofing' them. Not need for a coffee table - just end tables

Use lots of different fabrics - chenille, burlap, etc. for throw pillows and furnishings. Even though she cannot see a 'color scheme' it should still exist. She will have guests. Try tone on tone in the beige/cream/tan/brown family as they do not show dirt as easily. Then throw in one or two throw pillows in a vivid color.

Have a lamp in one convenient spot, so when she has guests over she can readily tell if the lamp was turned on or not.

Hang a large mirror opposite a window (or opposite the lamp) so the room will appear brighter to visitors.

Place a piece of tape over all other light switches so that lights are not left on without her knowledge. She can check the bathroom light after guests leave - for they should be able to use her facilities.

Use braille to label shelves for different foods.

Buy all white sheets and towels so there is no sorting of these items. They can all be washed together.

Use baskets - labeled in braille - in the bathroom for cleaning products, soaps, etc. Limit the number of these items so that her choices do not become confusing.

Hope these help. :)

Edited to add: Go to a place that sells hardscape for the landscape. You should be able to find large busts and other heavy items (made from concrete) that can be used for decoration on end tables, etc, but are heavy enough that they won't topple at the slightest touch. They will still provide for her tactile sense. Wind chimes will also provide a smoothing sound .

Edited again: No rugs. To easy to trip over. :)

Answer 2

no it's not dumb. blind people like their surroundings to be nice for others too. But when it's for the blind OVER doing it with a lot is not a good idea they still have to clean. I'd recommend things that aren't really flimsy, touchy or easy to knock over. Keep things simple and out of the way. Stick with a simple color theme so IF the friend decides to go out adventuring on her own and wants to buy something anyone can help her.

Answer 3

Fascinating question, and I wonder if it will be possible to incorporate tactile elements into the design? For instance, kitchen or bathroom tiles with a raised surface at hand height, textured wall coverings or dado rails. Maybe even textured floor coverings.

And it should be possible to create themes using these elements that are based on routes through the flat. Good luck to your friend, it's a very interesting idea...

Answer 4

1] does she have any color memory? It might be pleasing to know that her [ former ] favorite color is being used.
2] textures! What are some of her favorite fabrics?
Velvet LR furniture, satin bedspread/drapes, ruffled kitchen curtains and placemats would be fun. Differently textured throw pillows would work, too.
3] can she use any textured wall paper or paint?
4] recommend no area rug; bathroom rug should have textured backing.
5] Sculptures vs. paintings, etc. Figures, carvings, 3D art [ google it ], etc.

Answer 5

why does she need color schemes and creative ideas if she can't see to enjoy them. it seems dumb to put something aesthetically pleasing in a blind woman's home.

Answer 6

get some one to do it for you.......