A safer, more welcoming therapeutic space

Along with the nearly completed decking, these final touches mark the completion of an extensive 13-month renovation of The Alfred's Mental Health Inpatient Unit that has made extensive improvements across two wards and their external areas.

Deputy Director of Operations & Nursing, Hospital and Emergency at Alfred Mental and Addiction Health (AMAH) Kathryn Henderson said her team – which included the Inpatient Unit Operations team, lived and living experience staff, architects, interior designers and project managers – had clear goals when it came to the redesign.

“For us it was an opportunity to put into action recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System,” Kathryn said.

“It allowed us to improve gender safety by ensuring each room has its own ensuite bathroom, increasing privacy and safety.

“We also know that our environments play a big role in shaping how we feel and recover, which is why we designed the common areas to feel as open and spacious as possible.

“The colours, indoor gardens and de-escalation areas with sensory features reflect the thinking on this.”

Artist Melanie Caple said she had similar considerations in devising and painting the adult inpatient unit’s courtyard murals.

“I wanted to bring warmth to the space and make it feel like entering into an area that feels both calm and embracing,” Melanie said.

“To do that I’ve chosen a mix of native and domestic botanicals.

“The dahlias give a sense of caring for a garden, and the blue gum, eucalyptus and Leucadendron bring a sense of grounding.”

Kathryn said while it’s been a long process, the whole team is proud of the results.

“Not only did we complete the project on time, but we also successfully continued regular operations throughout,” Kathryn said.

“It was a huge effort on everyone’s part, and now we have new and vastly improved amenity to offer our consumers and staff.”