How One Art Installation Changed My Life
A few years ago, I attended an art installation for a memory care renovation project in Florida—
it changed my life.
At the time, I had only worked on a few renovation projects, let alone one in a fully occupied memory care community. If you’ve ever imagined what an older memory care communities might look like, you probably wouldn’t picture anything inviting. Historically, that was the case and sadly, that was true in this community. . But everything shifted—for the building, and for me.
A New Lens Through StudioSIX5
Since joining StudioSIX5 more than seven years ago, my perspective as a designer—and as a human—has transformed. The work at StudioSIX5 has allowed me to do genuine fulfilling work, that makes a difference. This was solidified with this one project, during the week of the art installation.
StudioSIX5’s approach isn’t just about furniture and finishes; it’s about telling meaningful stories through design. We create environments that honor the lives and dignity of those who live there. We are helping people find purpose in a part of their lives where purpose can sometimes be hard to find. This project was my first deep dive into what that truly means.
For months, we curated every detail—art, furnishings, finishes—with intention and purpose. When installation week arrived, I was excited to finally see it all come together. But nothing could have prepared me for the emotional journey that followed.
Installing Around Daily Life
Unlike a new build installation, this renovation required working within a living, breathing community. The building was active—residents followed their routines, nursing staff maintained their schedules, and the familiar hum of daily life filled every hallway. The Sound of Music played on a loop in the lounge, a favorite among residents. When I asked why it was on repeat, the staff explained that it was a music therapy tool they used with the residents—it helped them respond better, they were less distressed, and it helped their memory and communication.
This was my first real exposure to working in a memory care environment. Every task required me to be extra cognizant of my surroundings. We couldn’t unwrap and scatter artwork across the floor as we installed, each piece had to be installed one at time. I found myself being extremely careful not to leave any hardware or trash on the floor, these items could become a hazard or weapon to the resident if it wasn’t handled with care. I was on high alert the entire week. And yet, despite the stress and vigilance, something powerful unfolded.
The Deeper Story Behind the Art
Memory care design demands more than aesthetics. Residents in mid to late stages of Alzheimer’s often face challenges with loss of verbal communication, which causes frustration, and can lead to them being agitated. In the same manner the movie, The Sound of Music, was being used as a music therapy tool, art can serve as a form of therapy—inviting connection when words fall short. Many communities use art as a form of therapy with their residents.
At StudioSIX5, we intentionally, thoughtfully curate artwork that soothes and stimulates. Color, subject matter, and placement aren’t random, especially in a memory care community. Art that is thought-provoking can foster social connections and spark memories. When it’s done right, the results are visible—residents engage, moods lift, conversations start.
The Moment That Changed Everything
On the final day of installation, I was exhausted—overstimulated from a week of being hyper-aware. As we were wrapping up and checking to ensure all security hardware was locked and installed properly, I faintly heard something unexpected: a voice.
A beautiful, gentle voice singing Edelweiss.
Hearing someone sing Edelweiss was a magical moment in itself. As the voice got closer, I turned to see an older gentleman, arm in arm with a lady friend, walking slowly down the corridor. He was serenading her as they admired the newly installed art, viewing each piece without a care in the world. Their faces lit up with pure joy as they paused at each piece, absorbed in the moment, in each other.
Just being in that moment with them brought me to tears.
The impact we are making on these residents’ lives brought me to tears. I had to excuse myself to the restroom to cry—happy tears. That moment confirmed what I already felt in my heart: the work I do at StudioSIX5 is exactly what I’m meant to be doing.
This moment changed my life forever.
Design That Connects Us
That experience reminded me that the work we do is not just about making spaces beautiful—it’s about making them meaningful. We tell stories through design. Stories that connect residents to their memories, to each other, and to the present moment.
To this day, I can’t tell that story without tearing up. Because when art is designed to be felt, it speaks to the soul—not just the space. And that’s the kind of work that changes lives and tells stories worth remembering … and retelling.
September is World Alzheimer’s Month.