For inclusive design and dignified ageing: care shower chair receives recognition at the Hessian State Prize for Universal Design
Lola Behrens' bachelor's thesis has been recognised in the young talent category of the Hessian State Prize for Universal Design. The award-winning »LAVA« care shower chair was specially designed by the product designer to meet the needs of people with age-related physical limitations. With her work, Lola Behrens shows how clever design can improve the living conditions of many people and counter demographic change with good solutions.
LAVA is a new type of shower chair that focusses on the physical challenges of old age and mobility limitations. LAVA has many practical functions for everyday care, such as a shower head and soap holder, an ergonomically accessible hygiene cut-out and extended armrests that make it easier to stand up. An interchangeable foam cover ensures comfort and ease of sitting. »It was important to me to improve the independence and comfort of older or disabled people with a well thought-out design,« says Behrens, describing her idea. »Being able to perform personal hygiene independently is important in many respects for people who are dependent on care: Maintaining dignity, physical well-being and promoting mobility, but also relieving the burden on care staff are positive aspects.«
The jury of the Hessian State Prize for Universal Design particularly praised the balance of functionality, aesthetics and colour scheme in bright orange: »The design-oriented concept, which is not only functional but also aesthetic and mood-enhancing thanks to its form and materiality, deserves special mention. LAVA offers dignified, destigmatising support and significantly improves users' quality of life.« Behrens sees her design not only as a functional solution, but also as a contribution to society: »I wanted to design a product that helps people to maintain their independence without having to compromise on design and aesthetics. Dignity and quality of life should definitely also be reflected in the design of care products.«
About the Hessian State Prize for Universal Design
Every two years since 2011, the Hessian State Award for Universal Design has honoured outstanding projects that use innovative approaches to make everyday life, working life and infrastructure more accessible, comfortable and aesthetic. A total of 14 awards were presented at Formnext at Messe Frankfurt in 2024, including six company awards and eight awards for up-and-coming projects. www.universellesdesign.de
The bachelor's thesis »LAVA« was supervised by Gerrit Babtist, Professor of Design and Management, and the fromer Artistic Associate Almut Nowack.
Contact Lola Behrens:
www.instagram.com/designs.bylola
www.linkedin.com/in/lola-behrens-098135209
If you have any questions, please contact Romy Weinhold, Press and Public Relations Officer at the Faculty of Art and Design, by telephone on +49 / 36 43 / 58 11 86 or by e-mail at romy.weinhold[at]uni-weimar.de.