Interior design plays a critical role in helping promote wellness and quality of life among residents living in Portola Skilled Nursing Facility. With the latest refresh of two prominent rooms, it was all about finding a balance between community and creating a “sense of place” that connects with our residents.
More than just a coat of new paint, adjustable lighting, or shiny wood cabinets, there is human connection. Known as Annie’s Room, this space was named after beloved employee, Annie Tate. A housekeeper who was like a fixture in the skilled nursing facility. Small in stature, Annie greeted everyone with a warm smile and remembered your name. The refresh in this space is befitting, because now warm sunlight streams through the ceiling high windows and brightens the room like Annie’s smile.
The Sunrise Room is one of two dining rooms. It’s the place where meals are shared and quiet conversation can be heard over the clearing of breakfast plates. Aptly named, this space receives the morning sun as it rises, while the second dining room, the Sunset Room dims end of the day for sunset. The new colors and furniture for these rooms are complimented by large wall murals painted by local artist, Tina Thorman aka Trixie Hollyhox. “Sierra Sunrise” depicts a buck and an eagle enjoying a creekside, meadow view with the Sierra Buttes in the distance, while the “Sierra Sunset” mural depicts Sierra Valley at sunset with pronghorns, migrating birds, and Sugarloaf Mountain.
With the refresh of these communal areas, the thoughtful design combined with personal connection created an environment that fosters emotional comfort for every one of our residents
